Cora Mae Stricker

Cora Mae Stricker, born August 2, 1934, in Thomson, Illinois, passed away on March 9, 2026, at Allure Nursing Home in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. The daughter of Willard Hartman and Cornelia “Cora” (Voss) Hartman, she grew up in the Thomson and Savanna area and graduated from Savanna High School with the Class of 1952. She later worked at a local garment factory before devoting herself fully to her family.

On December 28, 1952, Cora married the love of her life, Herbert J. Stricker, in Savanna. A devoted homemaker, she found deep contentment in the quiet rhythms of home life. She cherished reading romance novels, following her favorite soap operas, and working with word books. A true homebody, Cora’s greatest joy came from being surrounded by family, especially during holidays when loved ones gathered under one roof.

Though gentle and soft-spoken by nature, those closest to her knew her feisty spirit and her willingness to speak her mind with honesty and care. She also possessed a playful side, delighting in her collection of M&M’s figurines. Cora is survived by her brothers Paul (Marilyn) Hartman and Richard Hartman of Savanna, her sister Sharon Orth of Benton, Wisconsin, many dear nieces and nephews, and her sister-in-law Lolita Hartman. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers William Hartman and Kenneth (Caroline) Hartman, and two infant brothers, Rex and Adam.