Richard Adam Streng

Richard Adam Streng, 79, of Antigo, Wisconsin, died Monday, December 20, 2021 at Aspirus Langlade Hospital surrounded by his family. Dick was born on April 14, 1942 in Wauwatosa, WI to the late Adam and Johanna (Bortz) Streng. He was married to Sharon Holtz in August,1964. The couple had 2 children and later divorced. On August 16, 1987, Dick was united in marriage to Jalaine (Brill) Nelson at Antigo City Park. She survives and resides in Antigo. Dick was a graduate of UW-Stevens Point in1964, where he studied biology in order to pursue a career as a Wisconsin game warden. He was a member of the distinguished Saisefi Fellowship. Following graduation, he began his career with the Wisconsin DNR headquartered in Oshkosh and traveled to multiple work locations as needed from 1965-1966. In January of 1967 he received his first permanent assignment in Chilton as a DNR Warden. In 1985 Dick was pleased to find his way to Antigo serving the area as DNR Warden Supervisor. Most alluring to Dick regarding the area were the fond childhood memories of traveling to the Elcho area by passenger train to hunt with his father, Adam. These early experiences instilled in him a great respect and admiration for the outdoors. Dick served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard from 1967-1972, including duty served in northern California. As a warden, he was known for being principled and conscientious. He worked long hours with fellow wardens, often going beyond the call of duty to uphold the law and be a steward of the land. His dedication built a legacy of respect from friend and foe alike. As Warden Supervisor, he was known to deeply embrace the needs of his wardens, known as “F Troop”, and set an extraordinary example for the people who worked with him. Whether he was hunting ducks with his friends and dog in North Dakota, hunting Elk in Colorado or deer on his favorite plot of land, his love of hunting and fishing with close friends and son, Chris held a special place in his heart. He was known for playing his guitar and singing among small groups of friends, both old and new, most commonly around a campfire. He always received requests to play when the opportunity arose. His talent and voice drew people to enjoy his playing wherever he went. His most greatly treasured time was with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends. Survivors in addition to his wife Jalaine, include sons: Daniel (Yaovarut) Streng of Chicago and Chris Streng of Antigo and Chicago, Jalaine’s children: Gail (Marcus) Klaeser of Winneconne and Eric (Katina) Nelson of Greenville, grandchildren: Arun and Sirikit Streng, and Melissa and Amanda Klaeser, a nephew Michael Cook, a niece Michelle Everly, and his dear yellow Labrador, Ursa. In addition to his parents, Dick is preceded in death by a sister Joan Cook. A visitation will be held on Monday, January 10th from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 PM at St. John’s Catholic Church in Antigo. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 PM. Pastor Wes Jedras of Faith United Church of Christ will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dick’s name may be directed to the Wisconsin Conservation Warden’s Association. Memorials can be sent directly to the association at PO Box 44, Madison, WI 53701. In being attentive to the well being of all in attendance, the family requests that all please observe safe practices and wear masks. Space considerations are in place to assist all attending during these trying times. Special thanks go out to St. John’s Church for allowing the family to use their spacious facility. Online viewing of the service will be available for those who cannot attend.