Memorial

Patricia Ann (Anderson) Strope, 88, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, September 2, 2023.  A private, family graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 6 at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Known by most as Pat or Grandma GG, Patricia was born to John and Amy (Striegel) Anderson in Fort Dodge, IA on July 11, 1935.  Shortly before graduating high school, Pat would move to Champaign, Il where she would meet her soulmate, Robert Strope. Bob and Pat wed on August 8, 1953, in Springfield, IL. They would move around the country during Bob’s military service before eventually settling into their home in Cedar Rapids. 

Pat occasionally worked part-time for Kelly Services, but primarily was a stay-at-home mom to her three children. Affectionately known by her family as the honey badger, Pat lived life her way. She would always say what she thought and had a laugh and smile that could light up the room. She was notorious for her shopping trips, and gifting things to others. Pat loved caring for animals and one of her brothers often joked that he hoped to one day be reincarnated as her dog. An avid bingo player, she loved winning stuffed animals at her care center to give to the great grandkids. Pat was also known to always be working a puzzle. Visitors always had to help put a piece in before they could leave.  She loved to travel, especially on trips with or to see her family. She would never turn down an invite to the local Dairy Queen and loved to treat others to a meal. She especially loved supporting her family, always attending performances and various events.

Pat will be lovingly remembered by son’s Mike Strope of Marion, IA, and Gareth (Veronica) Strope of Fairfax, VA; grandchildren, Troy, Bob, Richie, Mike Jr. (Rachel), Steven (Kelsey), Kaitie (James), Matt (Brittany), Evelyn (Nico), Gwyneth, Anya, and Katrin; great grandchildren, Tyler, Alan, Cade, Ella, Deacon, Braya, Ridge, Cooper, Cash, Cruz, Ryker and Maverick; special nephews, Craig, Bob, and Jerry; and niece, Amy and all their families.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings, Daryl, Jack and Jerry Anderson; sister-in-law Needie Bentley; son Daryl Strope; daughter-in-law LeAndra Strope, and special pets Sarge, Brandi, Muffin, Spud, and Bones. 
 
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Hiawatha Care Center. You went above and beyond providing for Pat and treated her like family. She enjoyed and appreciated you all just as much as we do.