Jack Barry Stroker

November 5, 2022

Jack Barry Stroker died Saturday, November 5, 2022 shortly after suffering a heart attack at his home.

Jack was born on May 22, 1947, the older son of Jack E. Stroker and Virginia Barry Stroker. He was raised in Ridgewood, New Jersey, where he and his brother Jim excelled in sports. The sudden loss of his father, whom he adored and admired, to a heart attack when Jack was fifteen deepened his special connection to his mother.

A multisport varsity athlete and star quarterback at Ridgewood High School, Jack went on to play Division 1 collegiate football at the University of Vermont, where he forged lifelong friendships.

After graduating with a BA in Political Science (class of ’69), Jack moved to New York City to follow his late father's career path in business. There he met the love of his life, Lynne Thayer Stroker. Jack and Lynne married in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1975 and soon returned to Ridgewood, where they raised their three children Ryan, Robby and Chelsea.

In 1991 Jack’s career led the family to Charlotte, NC, where they lived for the next 30 years, missed always by many loved ones in Ridgewood.

Jack spent every summer of his life on Long Beach Island, NJ. As a child and teenager, he vacationed there with his family, and later in life he and Lynne made LBI their second home. He loved to swim in the ocean and could often be found on the beach with family and friends playing games or throwing a football. He was a lifelong surfer and his first board, a gift from his “Gram,” now hangs in the backyard of the family’s home.

Jack exemplified what it means to be a father. He loved his children unconditionally and made sure they knew it. He coached every sport, was at every game, every practice, every performance—every opportunity to be with his kids.

In the last years of his life, Jack’s favorite activity was spending time with his incredible grandchildren, Quincy, Ceci, Ryland, Jack, and Molly.

Through his infectious enthusiasm, big-heartedness, and charisma, Jack touched countless lives. He cared deeply about others and always made each person he spoke to feel like he or she was the most important person in the room. He led by example and inspired us all to be the best versions of ourselves. He will be remembered for his radiant smile, dapper attire, and good looks, and cherished always for the generosity, loyalty, and kindness that he gifted so completely to us all.

He leaves his wife Lynne Stroker; son Ryan Stroker, wife Lilia, and daughters Quincy and Ceci; son Robby Stroker, fiancé Steve, and dogs Buddy, Poppy, and Lucy; daughter Chelsea Caulder, husband Mike, and kids Ryland, Jack, and Molly; brother Jim Stroker; his beloved nieces and nephews; Bryan Graham, Colin Graham and Christin Thayer Graham-Johnson; beloved cousins; and many close friends.

A celebration of Jack’s life was held November 18th in Charlotte.

The family asks that contributions be made to the EB Research Project at ebresearch.org in memory of Jack Stroker.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC; 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

 

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  • Mike Connelly

    My condolences to all the Stroker families and relatives. I have vivid memories of Jack standing tall in the pocket and rifling a football downfield. Also, I remember his unique voice and friendly countenance. God bless all his family and friends. RIP Jack.