Fuquay-Varina - Gerald “Rick” Stroup Jr., 41, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, September 20 surrounded by those he loved.

Rick was a devoted husband of 19 years to his childhood sweetheart, Tracey, and proud father of 8 year old Josef. Originally from Millville, N.J., Rick joined the Navy after high-school so that he could see the world. He served our country for 10 years working in Nuclear Radiation Technology aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, while based in Newport News, Virginia. He and his wife then settled in the Raleigh area, where he was employed as a Senior Calibration/Instrumentation Supervisor at Biogen Idec. His biggest passion and love was being with his family and teaching his son about the world around him.

Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Hilda Verhestraeten Stroup along with both his maternal and paternal Grandparents.

Rick is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Tracey Hanby Stroup, his young son Josef, his faithful dog Gabby and his parrot Gemini.



He is also survived by his father, Gerald Stroup Sr. of Sparta, TN., his sister, Danielle Chapman of Peoria, IL, his self-proclaimed 2nd parents (In-Laws) Bruce and Joyce Hanby of Blairsville, GA., his brother-in-law Bruce Hanby Jr. of Runnemede, N.J., along with nieces, a nephew, cousins, aunts and uncles, his extended family—Kenny Cox, Susan & Sven Schreck and lifelong friend (“brother”) Rick Fowler, along with his many friends and co-workers.

Rick lived his 41 years to the fullest, with honor, integrity, dedication and service to those he loved. He reminded us each and every day to love and cherish our families and friends.

The family wishes to thank Dr. P.J. Singh & Marie Carr, P.A., the wonderful 3rd floor West Nurses at Wake Med Cary, as well as the caregivers from Hospice of Wake County for their selfless dedication and devotion to Rick’s care.



Rick will be so deeply missed by all who knew him and would want to know that his son is provided for.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the college fund of Josef Stroup, payable to Josef Stroup, c/o Susan Schreck, 405 Sugar Maple Drive, Tega Cay, S.C. 29708.

A Memorial Service to Celebrate Rick’s Life is scheduled for Friday, September 25 at 12:00 p.m. at Thomas Funeral Home Chapel, 401 N. Ennis St., Fuquay Varina. Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home.