Ignatius Jerome Strecker

[2] Strecker was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Wichita by Bishop Christian Winkelmann on December 19, 1942, celebrating his first Mass in his native Spearville two days later.

He received his episcopal consecration on June 20, 1962, from Archbishop Edward Hunkeler, with Bishops Charles Helmsing and Marion Forst serving as co-consecrators, in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

Widely known as an advocate for small family farms, as well as the poor in the inner city and Hispanics, Strecker urged Congress to work toward a comprehensive food and agricultural policy.

"In 1990, Strecker established background and reference checks for all persons working with children - including employees and volunteers, at the archdiocese as part of a policy to combat sexual abuse of minors.

"[4] After reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75, Strecker resigned his post as Archbishop on June 28, 1993, following twenty-three years of service.