It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Lester Ernest Strom on October 24, 2026. Les was just shy of 88 years old. He had roots in Wisconsin and spent the past 30 years in Louisiana where he moved to escape the snowy Midwest.
Les was born in Wauwatosa and grew up in West Allis, the youngest of six children. He attended Roosevelt College in Chicago and Baptist Seminary in Kansas City before starting his career in Rosetta and Monmouth, Illinois. Work eventually drew Les and his family to the Madison, Wisconsin area where he championed support for those with disabilities and those facing homelessness.
Les devoted his professional life to serving others, particularly those whose needs were often overlooked. Deeply committed to his faith, he believed that ministry was best demonstrated through actions rather than words. He put that belief into action by establishing the Strom Center in Monmouth, Illinois which supported individuals with disabilities. He also established the drop-in shelter in the basement of Grace Episcopal Church in Madison, Wisconsin, providing refuge and support for those experiencing homelessness. Later in life he was the executive director of Habitat for Humanity in Baton Rouge, LA. These lasting contributions reflect his unwavering belief in the dignity and worth of every person.
Above all, Les loved his family. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and a man whose life touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him. He adored his children and grandchildren, whose lives were enriched by his love, humor, and encouragement. His legacy extends beyond family traditions and stories. Through his example, he taught the importance of compassion, generosity, and treating others with dignity. His contributions live on not only through the organizations he established and the communities he served, but through his family who carry his values forward.
After decades of working diligently to make the world a better place, Les enjoyed a peaceful retirement filled with watching birds, reading, and tooling around his property on his red tractor. Through even his most difficult days, Les never lost the humor, compassion, and quiet dignity that defined his life.
He is survived by his loving children Harold Strom, Brian Strom, Shelly Strom and Sara Strom and his grandchildren Noah, Tristan, Bryn, Zoe, Xander, Noelle and Kamari as well as extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and five siblings.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Porchlight, Shelter Friends of Dane County, or your local Habitat for Humanity.
We would like to extend a sincere thank you to staff at Rapides Regional Medical Center, especially Nurse Stephanie, Respiratory Therapist Christian and Dr. Nicholas Harris and also to the staff from Exceptional Home Care for their dedication and compassion in his final weeks.
We will love and miss you forever, Dad. Until we meet again…