Dale "Manard" Strike, 51, of Chenoa passed away unexpectedly at 9:45 am, Sunday, October 28, 2018 in Chenoa.

His funeral will be 11 am, Friday, November 2, 2018 at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Chenoa with Pastor Daryl Evans officiating. Burial will follow in Chenoa Township Cemetery, Chenoa.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 pm, Thursday, November 1, 2018 also at the funeral home in Chenoa. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be directed to Chenoa Fireman's Fund, Chenoa.

Dale was born February 25, 1967 in Normal, the son of John and Bertha (Martin) Strike.  His parents, John & Bertha survive in Chenoa.  His maternal and paternal grandparents preceded him in death.

Other survivors include his siblings, Scott Strike of Lexington; Mark Strike of Chenoa; Dawn Strike-Halcom of Bloomington; and numerous aunts, uncles, two nieces and two nephews.

He attended Chenoa schools and graduated high school in 1985.  During his time at Chenoa High School, he was a member of the wrestling team.

In 1991, Manard joined the Chenoa Volunteer Fire Department, serving for nearly 28 years, the last 10 being Captain.  He loved firefighting and serving his community.  It was said by many that he would do anything to help anyone in need.  He was also on the 4 ^th of July fire department's clown truck, portraying the "convict" by displaying hysterical antics in the parade every year.

Manard was employed in the agricultural and farming industry for many years, and most recently employed by the City of Chenoa.  He was a strong, efficient and diligent worker in all capacities and looked forward to going to work every day.

He was usually the "life of the party," with his quick whit and sense of humor.  He will be deeply missed by his hometown and many friends.  We will never find another to fill his shoes.  We know he is in Heaven because the Devil is afraid he'll just put the fire out!