Read Richard "Rick" Harvey Strode's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Richard "Rick" Harvey Strode

Portland, OR

April 12, 1953 - October 16, 2025

Apr 12, 1953 - Oct 16, 2025

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Our beloved Richard Harvey Strode passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 72. He is survived by his loving wife Laura.
He was born in Vancouver, Washington on April 12, 1953. His childhood in Portland instilled a lifelong passion for God, a passion which he loved to speak about with anyone who would listen. His faith in Christ was the foundation in which all other aspects of his life were built. Rick and Laura first met at Kenton Church and bonded over their mutual appreciation for singing in the choir. An enjoyment which they continued to share throughout their long and happy marriage.
Rick’s life in Portland was very full. In his early years he attended Chief Joseph Elementary School in Portland, Oregon where he would often ask for extra homework. He attended Benson High School in Portland, Oregon which inspired his love for photography. He attended Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, Illinois for college. While there, he joined the fraternity Rho Delta Rho Chapter of Tau Epsilon Phi where he established many lifelong friendships. Rick, and fraternity brother Peter Eckert, started an amazing photography business, “Strode Eckert Photographic” which they founded around 1983. Many years later, they decided to go in separate directions, so Rick established “Strode Photographic” which was his passion until his retirement.
Rick and Laura were married at Kenton Church on August 25, 1979, and were very devoted to each other. Their love and commitment to each other was a wonderful example to all. They loved to take trips together, sing together, and hold hands while watching TV. They just loved spending time together. Rick loved his career in Architectural Photography. His passion for photography and art was inspirational. He had an unprecedented eye for beauty that others simply couldn’t see. Rick was very knowledgeable about many things and watching Jeopardy with him was always fun as he knew almost every answer. Rick also had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed a good pun. Dad jokes were his forte. He loved God, his wife, his family, friends, and the choir. Everyone who was in the choir with him was privileged. Rick also had a passion for golf. He used to golf with his dad, many church friends, family, grandson, and his son-in-law. His last Saturday on Earth was spent at Top Golf celebrating his grandson’s birthday. Rick also had a passion for cars and Formula 1 Racing. Watching the excitement on his face at a car show was a sight to behold. But we can’t forget his lifelong passion for and devotion to the Portland Trail Blazers. He loved watching the Blazers games and cheering on the team, even during the not-so-great years. His daughters will continue that tradition.
He leaves behind his children Elisabeth Phillips & Allison Rudisel, grandchildren Xaeryn Rudisel, Xander Rudisel, Danika Phillips, Ambriel Rudisel, & Amara Rudisel, Sister-in-law’s, Brother -in -laws, as well as many nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved so much.
He was preceded in death by his parents Percy & Olwen Strode, and his brother Thomas Strode.
The memorial service will be held at Kenton Church 2115 N Lombard St. Portland, Oregon 97217 on November 15th, 2025 at 2:00pm. All friends and family are welcome. The family asks that any donations be made to Kenton Presbyterian Church EPC Portland, Oregon, instead of flowers or other gifts. Dress code is whatever you find comfortable, except swimsuits and birthday suits. Ties are encouraged! Regrettably there is no handicap access to the sanctuary.