Dakotaland Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Chad Stricherz’s decision to join the Consumer Lending Team in the Watertown Branch location. “As a previously decorated officer over two decades for the Watertown Police Department, Stricherz has mastered many skills and talents which he brings with him to Dakotaland. We are fortunate for the opportunity to secure Chad’s level of experience in service to the community as we continue to build the strength of our team and commitment to our members”, shared Watertown Branch Manager, Sam Mooney.
Stricherz was born and raised in Watertown South Dakota and graduated from Watertown High School in 1988. After joining the South Dakota National Guard, Chad attended South Dakota State University in Brookings before returning home to Watertown. He proceeded to work and attend school part time at Mounty Marty University’s Watertown campus. Chad graduated in 2003, while at the time, working for the Watertown Police Department.
“One of the aspects of Law Enforcement I most liked, and especially here in Watertown, was the ability to help people and to be involved in the community. I saw how Dakotaland was becoming more and more involved in the community, and I knew when I left Law Enforcement, I still wanted to continue in a career that had meaning for me. I have found that in Dakotaland”, stated Stricherz. Chad admitted it was scary leaving something he had been doing for 23 years to attempt something he had not done before, but from day one he realized he made a great choice in joining the crew at DFCU. “The staff I have met are second to none, from the CEO on down the line. Everyone has been nothing but helpful and friendly and the culture at is amazing. I wasn’t sure places like this existed except maybe in the movies, but I feel blessed to be a part of it all” added Stricherz.
Chad married his high school sweetheart, Kim (Hurkes) Stricherz, in July of 1994. They have 3 children, a daughter, Kynsee (24), a son, Cooper (19) and another son, Camden (13). The Stricherz family is pet friendly and share their home with a golden doodle named Daisy and a cat named Cosmo, along with a part time dog named Walker. In his free time, Chad likes to stay active. He played men’s league slow pitch softball for 34 years, used to officiate basketball, and coached H/S varsity girls’ basketball in Waverly SD for 3 years. “I love to coach and had the opportunity to help coach my son’s 8th grade football team this season and I still currently coach his softball team. I have coached all 3 of my kids in their different sports they played growing up”, claims Stricherz. Beyond that, Chad likes to relax and spend time and travel with my family.
Dakotaland Federal Credit Union has locations in Huron, Volga, Brookings, Madison, Redfield, Aberdeen, De Smet, Mitchell, Watertown, and Woonsocket. With over 46,000 members and $700 million in assets, Dakotaland continues to be locally owned and operated offering a full line of financial services to its membership since 1935.
