Nelda Stratz, cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend passed away on October 25, 2026, at the age of 91. Nelda was born on June 11, 1935, in a log cabin in Remus, Michigan. She was the fourth of nine children born to Seamer and Olive (Rees) Stickler. Nelda and Gordon married on October 13, 1956 and began their life together.

Nelda was a longtime resident of Big Rapids and a dedicated member of St. Mary Catholic Church. Her journey through life was marked by her unwavering devotion to family, her community, and her faith. Nelda began her working life at Citizens Bank but chose to focus on her growing family for 18 years. After her children were older, she returned to the workforce at Old Kent, where she excelled in the mortgage loan department until her retirement in 1995. It was after her retirement that Nelda and Gordon enjoyed their time as snowbirds in Florida for a decade.

Her life was full of simple pleasures, such as birdwatching and tending to her flowers, but she found her greatest joy in her family, crafting world-famous chocolate chip cookies, and extending warmth and kindness to everyone who entered her home. Known for her generosity and love, Nelda held an open door policy, welcoming all with open arms. A devout Catholic, Nelda was actively involved in the Altar Society at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Her faith and community service were guided by her deep-rooted belief in kindness and compassion.

Nelda is survived by her loving children: Cheryl Kelley, Charlene (Warren) Hansen, Karl (Deb) Stratz, Steve (Denise) Stratz, Michael (Danora) Stratz, and Joni (Kyle) Luce. She leaves behind a lasting legacy through her 18 cherished grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Nelda is also survived by her sister, Linda (Bill) Knobloch, her brother, Jack (MaryAnn) Stickler, and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gordon Stratz, her parents, Seamer and Olive (Rees) Stickler, a grandchild, Matthew Hansen, five great-grandchildren, her sisters, Jean May, Ada May, Alma Henning, and brothers, Glen, Jerry, and Lloyd Stickler.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the visitation held at Daggett Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids, MI, on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held the following day on Thursday, November 5th, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church. A graveside service at Mt. Carmel Cemetery will follow at 12:00 pm. The family invites you to join them for a reception at St. Mary Catholic Church immediately following the graveside services. In memory of Nelda Stratz, donations can be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church or Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Daggett Gilbert Funeral Home - Big Rapids.