For more than 12 years Strohler was the official greeter at Flowers by Gil and Curt. He was a beloved companion and he loved his life. Sadly, Strohler passed away in July 2019 from an apparent stroke. He will be missed deeply by all who knew him, and to preserve and honor his memory, the Alice Fund has established this opportunity where beloved cat companions are recognized in memoriam.

In Celebration of Strohler we will accept donations in honor of those gone too soon. Remembering a pet in an online memorial is a wonderful way to celebrate their love and affection. Please make a gift today and share your cat’s story with us.


 

The Story of Strohler

Strohler, feline proprietor of Flowers by Gil and Curt for many years, left us way too soon. His friends and family are painfully aware of the void that he so mischievously filled. Strohler's duties at the shop included primary door greeter ("Hewoa, Hi, Hi!"), security patrol (guarding against dogs on the sidewalk- except that peach colored Pomeranian that was his door friend), and therapy cat (giving love and empathy to anyone that happened to be planning a funeral). He particularly loved to sit in on (rather in the middle of) Bridal consultations, often leaving the Brides wearing white (fur).

Each of the staff at the shop had their duties and responsibilities assigned by their individual capabilities. He dictated those duties with an iron paw. Gil was his manager in charge of food, medicine, sanitation, and entertainment. Curt was his manager in charge of petting, catching him for his doses, and entertainment. He had an additional manager in charge of snack vending, dosing, and entertainment. Yes. Entertainment was a priority for him. His hobbies included playing with peacock feathers, knitted mice, peppermint balls, laser pointers, and fish videos. He was obsessed with all office equipment- including copiers, printers, and computer monitors. All boxes and purses belonged to him. If his food bowl was not filled to his liking, he placed rubber bands and knitted mice in it until such a time that the food manager completed his assigned task.

Strohler could often be found sitting in the shop window or lounging on the counter. He greeted passersby day and night. He had his favorite friends. He loved "The Lady with the Beowl" (Bowl) and "The meowl guy" (mail man). He loved men with beards and ladies with painted toenails. He loved some children, and others- not so much. His distrust of dog owners was evident in the way that he followed them around and watched them like they were related to his favorite chipmunks. He loved chicken and would check each guest at the counter to see if they had consumed any of it. He preferred his chicken in quarter inch cubes. He really liked everyone except one UPS driver from a few years back and the one Tremonster that seemed to have less than stellar intentions.

The NorthShore lost its best mascot when Strohler left us. From him, we were witness to hospitality, empathy, and love in the purest forms. He taught us how to set boundaries and to choose wisely what we wish to have in our lives. Finding Joy in simple pleasures and Peace in simple observations are his legacy, and that legacy is well worth preserving. Sadly missed and so fondly remembered by his staff.

 

Mail-in donations may be sent to:
The Alice Fund
310 Cherokee Boulevard
Chattanooga, TN  37405