Nick Stroup

Nick Stroup, 73, Silver Lake Ks, passed away July 16th at Midland Hospice House. Nick was born in Hutchinson Ks. on June 5th 1946. He is survived by his wife ,Diana and daughter Holly, his Step mom, Ruby Stroup, sisters Joy and  Chris and brother Mike. step daughters ,grandchildren ,nieces nephews and many, many friends.

Nick was born and raised in Hutchinson, Ks .He is predeceased by his  mother and father Evelyn and Clair Stroup Jr.

Nick was a Medic Corpsman for the Navy and served during the Viet Nam era. While stationed in Cuba  he received a gunshot  wound to his chest and was honorably discharged from service.

Nick attended Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Science Majoring in Governmental Administration and Criminal Justice. He was also a graduate of Northwestern University -Accident Investigation and Reconstruction Schools.

Nicks background was in law enforcement.  He started his career in Hutchinson Ks from 1971 to 1974. In 1974 he became a member of the Topeka Police Department. From 1974 to 1981 he was assigned to patrol, traffic and detective investigation. He also served as Training Officer for Traffic and Patrol which time he was the Assistant District Divisions.Liaison/Administrative Assistant to Traffic Division Commander (1981 to1984).Nick was a motorcycle patrolman and an accident  on the way to a call left him with permanent injuries. He elected to take a medical retirement form the PD.

Nick also owned  Stroup Retail Liquor Store,  was a courier for Silver Lake Bank and a funeral escort for First Call.

Nick and Diana owned two hot air balloons over a 25 year period. They enjoyed the friendships that developed from thosemany years. Nick was the President of the Great Plains Balloon Club and the Rally Co-coordinator for the Huff n' Puff too many times to count.

Nick did not want a funeral, he wanted a celebration of life. His instructions to me were, "Take the money you would have spent on a funeral and have a party for everyone." I am going to have it at Post 400 where he was a past Commander. His celebration of life will be August 16th starting at 6PM with a gun salute and flag presentation, followed by food and drink and memories to share. He was quite a man ,so I know there will be some great ones.   Am Legion Post 400  3029 US 24.

If you want , you can make a memorial contribution in Nicks name to The Helping Hands Humane Shelter, or to any charity you hold close.

Thank you for your prayers

Keep your eyes to the skies