Desi Edward

Strode

Desi Edward Strode passed away peacefully on November 5, 2026, at Carle Hospital in Urbana Illinois surrounded by the love of his wife, children and family. Following a sudden diagnosis of lymphoma, Desi’s journey was heartbreakingly brief.

Born Desi Edward Strode in Champaign, Illinois, on December 15, 1959, he was the son of Douglas Franklin and Grace Dena (Stein) Strode.

Desi is survived by his wife, Leslie Diann; his daughter Amanda (Johnny), and their children, Sully and Leland, his son Jesse (Logan); and his stepson, Ryan Apland (Ellie), and their children, Owen, William and Elizabeth.

He is also survived by his mother, Grace Strode; his sisters, Diane (Henry) Carter and Denise (Steve) Hartsell; his brothers in law Dan Kara (Debbie) and David Kara (Jill); his aunt, Mary Sandwell and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces nephews, and cousins throughout Illinois, Florida and Tennessee.

Desi was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Oma Bertha (Bartell) and Anton Stein; his paternal grandparents, Charles and Nellie (Granny) Strode; his father, Douglas Franklin Strode; his brothers Dennis Strode and Dougie Strode; his uncle Edward Bartell affectionally known as “Unkie”, his uncle Ted Sandwell; his special nephew Byron Young and his cousin, Debby Young.

Desi was a lifelong resident of the Champaign-Urbana area and the owner of K&R Painting. A skilled master craftsman, Desi built a reputation for excellence in his work and had the opportunity to work with many individuals through the Champaign-Urbana community. He took great pride in his craftsmanship and was known for his exceptional skills.

Music was always a big part of Desi’s life, especially old county music. His favorites included Tom Petty, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams Sr and Jr. He also had a love for the open road and took great pride in his beautiful Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Riding was one of the things he truly enjoyed and the freedom of the open road.

Desi was a hardworking, genuine man who lived life on his own terms. He had once experienced and encountered Heaven, and that experience gave him a special peace about what lay ahead. He was not afraid to make that journey again

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 16th at 10:00 a.m. at St Matthews Lutheran Church, 2200 Philo Road, Urbana, IL 61802. Pastor Bob Rasmus will be officiating. Burial will be private