Anthony Luis Strahija, a deeply devout, vibrant, and adored 20-year-old resident of North Port, Florida, passed away tragically on the morning of Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Known for his radiant smile, his fierce protectiveness as a brother, and an infectious light-heartedness that instantly filled any room, Anthony was an anchor of joy for his family and community. A young man of immense character and profound faith, he lived his life with a clear purpose rooted in his love for God and his family. His sudden, devastating loss has left his loved ones and the wider Charlotte and Sarasota County communities heartbroken.
The US-17 Accident
On Thursday morning, July 16, 2026, Anthony was driving his Volkswagen GTI eastbound on US-17 near Duncan Road in Punta Gorda, approaching the Interstate 75 interchange.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, his vehicle entered the intersection and collided with the trailer portion of a commercial Freightliner semi-truck that was executing a turn onto the I-75 entrance ramp. Anthony tragically succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Faith-Driven Life and Community Inspiration
Anthony was a proud member of the Class of 2024 at Imagine High School in North Port, where he excelled as a passionate athlete. Wearing Jersey #25, he was a key Shooting Guard (SG) for the Boys basketball program, admired by his teammates for his grit, work ethic, and team-first mentality.
Beyond his athletic pursuits, Anthony’s life was fundamentally defined by his unwavering Catholic faith. He was a deeply committed parishioner who stood out as a beacon of hope for older generations in the church, inspiring many simply by his devout presence in the pews every week. His heart was firmly determined to follow God’s word, and he actively lived out his faith through his genuine kindness and an innate ability to make every individual feel uniquely loved.
Anthony was also looking forward to building a beautiful future; he was deeply in love with his girlfriend, Lily, whom he proudly envisioned as his future wife.
A Community Rallies Behind the Family
The suddenness of Anthony’s passing has deeply impacted local school and church networks. His mother, Ms. Mönch, is a beloved kindergarten teacher at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte. As she and her family navigate this unimaginable storm, a massive wave of prayer and solidarity has swept through the St. Charles Borromeo and San Antonio Catholic Church parishes.
To support the family with the unexpected financial burdens of this tragedy, a memorial fundraiser was established on GiveSendGo. In an extraordinary testament to the impact Anthony and his mother have had on local children and families, the community responded instantly, quickly surpassing the initial goal to ensure Anthony receives the beautiful, peaceful farewell he deserves.
Surviving Family and Tributes
Anthony’s love and vibrant light will be carried forward forever by:
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His adoring parents, including his mother, Ms. Monch
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His loving siblings, who will forever carry the protection of their big brother
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His devoted girlfriend, Lily
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The extended Strahija, Valdivia Mönch, and Mönch Diaz families.
His community unites in prayer for his eternal peace:
“Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
The family extends their deepest gratitude for the overwhelming prayers, texts, and financial generosity pouring in from across the region. Final funeral arrangements and a mass of Christian burial are currently being prepared.