Russell A. Strunk

Russell A. Strunk: A Life in High Gear

Russell A. Strunk, 70, of Douglassville, PA, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Born in Pottstown on June 21, 1955, to the late Russell A. Strunk, Sr. and Beverly I. Strunk, Russ was a man defined by his craftsmanship, his kindness, and his lifelong love for anything with wheels. He was the husband of Lorraine F. (Coveleski) Strunk.

A 1973 graduate of Pottstown Senior High School, Russ began his career at the Firestone Tire & Rubber Company before finding his stride in auto sales. He was a familiar, friendly face at Williams Pontiac (now Patriot) in Boyertown for many years, and in his retirement, he enjoyed the camaraderie of working at Amity 1st Stop Beverage in Douglassville.

To those in the local car community, Russ was more than just a hobbyist—he was a local legend. A true "car guy," his wealth of knowledge on hot rodding, vintage, and classic cars was unmatched. Russ was a fixture at events ranging from the local Pottstown car cruise and Oley Fairgrounds to Geezers at the Grove – Maple Grove Raceway, Wheels of Time Rod & Custom, and Das Awkscht Fescht in Macungie. His passion took him even further to the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in York, multiple Carlisle Nationals, and across the country to iconic venues like Indy, Daytona, and the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where he connected with the legends of the hot rod and racing communities.

Whether he was entering a show or cheering from the sidelines, his commitment to the craft was evident. His talent earned him numerous awards over the years and the ultimate recognition of being featured on the cover and in a full spread of Ol’ Skool Rodz Magazine. In addition to the cars he built and restored, Russ spent many years immersed in the world of RC and slot car racing, building both high-speed memories and lasting friendships at local tracks.

Russ’s love for the outdoors was just as vibrant. He was an avid cyclist, whether tackling the rugged trails of French Creek State Park on his mountain bike or riding road bikes with friends for charity, including completing the Five Boro Bike Tour in NYC two years in a row. He found peace trout fishing in the Manatawny Creek and took immense pride in the quiet beauty of his garden.

In addition to his wife Lorraine, he is survived by his sister, Deborah K. (Strunk) Beekley (widow of Wayne Beekley); his brother, Randall S. Strunk; his nephews, Michael P. Strunk (husband of Christina) and Wayne R. Beekley (husband of Melissa); and his niece, Jodi L. Beekley. He also leaves behind his goddaughter and great-niece, Samantha M. Strunk, and his great-nephew, Michael J. Strunk, both of whom he cherished.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 12:00 noon at the Dengler-Sowers Funeral Home & Crematory, LLC., 144 N Spruce St, Birdsboro, PA, 19508. A visitation will be held from 10:00am-12:00 noon at the funeral home on Saturday prior to the start of the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Humane Pennsylvania or Animal Rescue League Of Berks County.