Alan Strom

Services for Alan Strom, 68, of Groton will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 16th at the United Methodist Church, Groton.  Rev. Rob Moorlach will officiate.  Burial will follow in Union Cemetery under the direction of Paetznick-Garness Funeral Chapel, Groton.  Services will be broadcast live on GDILIVE.COM and will also be broadcast on GDIRADIO at 89.3 FM, available within 1 mile of Groton.

Visitation will be held at the church on Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m.

Alan Lee Strom, age 68, peacefully passed away on November 11, 2023, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Aberdeen, SD, surrounded by his loving sons, daughters-in-law, four grandchildren, and his devoted partner, Shelly Lerew.

Alan's life journey began on September 26, 1955, as the only child of Doris and Lloyd Strom. Graduating from Groton High School in 1973, he embraced a life deeply rooted in family and farming. Moving to the family farm, he began a career in agriculture that forged a lifelong bond with his father, Lloyd.

On September 17, 1977, Alan married Vicki Clark in Aberdeen, and together, they built a loving home on a farm near Groton. A dedicated family man, they raised their two sons, Nicholas and Jackson, in a house he constructed on the farm.

After his father's passing in 1996, Alan continued the family legacy, nurturing a profound passion for farming that defined his life. From tending to feeder cattle in his youth to farming crops until his final days, he found fulfillment in every aspect of the agricultural cycle. Alan never missed a harvest in 54 years, a testament to his unwavering commitment.

Finding joy in every season, Alan was always ready for the next task, whether it involved expanding the farm, fixing equipment, or simply cleaning the shop. His deep passion for daily work extended beyond the fields, creating cherished moments with friends and fellow farmers over morning coffee.

As a devoted husband, Alan cherished 33 years with his wife, Vicki, who bravely battled cancer for four years before her passing in 2010. He took great pride in spending quality time with his sons, engaging in everyday tasks, and enjoying snowmobiling adventures out west. Alan was a proud 'Papa' and 'Grandpa Al' to his four beloved grandchildren.

Later in life, Alan met Shelly Lerew, and in addition to traveling together, they shared the joys of camping, attending races, and trail-riding UTVs. Together, they built a life and home in Groton.

Alan's days were filled with hard work, yet he always made time for those who mattered most. He was known for his generosity, and his love was expressed through acts of service.

In the community, Alan stood as a pillar, contributing time and effort to various causes, extending a helping hand wherever needed. No matter how deep the snow, Alan would be the first to be out clearing people’s driveways. His impact reached far and wide, leaving an enduring mark on those fortunate enough to know him.

Beyond his agricultural pursuits, Alan was a skilled builder, contributing to the construction of over ten homes in and around Groton. He was a member of the Groton Methodist Church, served as a past president of the North Central Livestock Association, and coached basketball for his sons in elementary school.

Alan had a passion for classic cars and even built his own chopper in his earlier years. He enjoyed snowmobiling, ATV trail riding, camping, playing pool, attending stock car races, and car shows.

Alan's 68 years were characterized by a profound love for family, a deep connection to the land, and a steadfast commitment to the community he called home. His legacy of hard work, kindness, and a love for life will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Simply a good and honorable man.

We look forward to our next signature Alan hug and smile when we see him again.

Celebrating his life are his sons, Nicholas (Jenna) Strom of Groton, Jackson (Lindsey) Strom of Fargo, four grandchildren, Ava, Zoey, Sully, and Oliver, his mother, Doris Strom of Aberdeen, and partner, Shelly LeRew of Groton; mother-in-law Dorothy (Fritz) Fiala, Sisters-in-law Ginger (Joe) Kuschel, Julie Schaller, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceding him in death is his father Lloyd Strom; wife Vicki Strom; father-in-law Casey Clark; sister-in-law Colleen Schnaidt; brother-in-law Scott Clark.

Honorary Casketbearers will be Kevin Anderson, Ralph Merkel, Barney Dombrowe, Jerry Johnson, Jerry Ray Johnson, Curt Merkel.

Casketbearers will be Dave Dell, Dave Stahl, Bruce Merkel, Larry Harry, Bob Krueger and Korey Freudenthal.

Memorials may be directed to the United Methodist Church, 906 North 2nd Street, Groton, SD 57445.

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