Service measured not by GOLD,
                           but by the GOLDEN RULE

Service measured not by GOLD,
          but by the GOLDEN RULE

330.262.7771

WOOSTER – Howard Strauch was born on May 10, 1927 in Lakewood, Ohio to the late Albert W. and Alice B. Strauch. He ascended into Heaven on Monday, April 20, 2020.   His older sister Margaret Strauch Seklemian passed way in 2011.
He married Joann Bowman on August 5, 1951. They were happily married for 68 and ½ years.   They are the parents of David H. (Holly) of Chagrin Falls, OH; Douglas B. (Fran) of Turnersville, NJ; Daniel W. (Carol) of Orchard Park, NY; Barbara A. Reichard (Jim) of Charlotte, NC. Also surviving are a special niece Leigh Seklemian of San Francisco, nine grandchildren (three of whom are married), and one great granddaughter.
Howard enlisted in the Navy during the spring of his senior year at Lakewood High School in 1945.   He was actively serving when WWII ended.   His ship helped transport soldiers and marines in the Pacific.   He enrolled at Ohio Wesleyan University and graduated in 1950.   At OWU, he majored in History, was elected President of his senior year class, and met his wife, Joann.   In 1954, Howard graduated from American University in Washington D.C. with a Master ™s Degree in Public Administration.
In June of 1953, he began a 15-year career at Ohio Wesleyan in admissions, alumni relations, and fundraising.   OWU presented him with a distinguished alumni award in 1988.   During his years in Delaware, Ohio he was active at William Street Methodist Church. He also served as the OWU Chapter Adviser for Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and was an active supporter for many years.
In August of 1968, he began a 25-year career at The College of Wooster as Director of Development.   During this time, he was Director of the Annual Fund, helped lead several Capital Campaigns, and initiated the program for 50-year Class Funds.  He also befriended many students and was a mentor and role model throughout their lives.   He served as Chaplain of the Downtown Rebounders in support of The Fighting Scots Basketball team.
Howard and Joann were active members of The Wooster United Methodist Church.   Howard was active in Promise Keeper ™s, Men ™s Prayer Group, and Emmaus.   He was instrumental in helping The Salvation Army establish a CORPS in Wooster and was honored as a Life Member.   He was active in the Wooster Kiwanis Club from 1969 to 2019 (50 years!). He was a member of the YMCA Board, served as Chairman of the United Way Campaign in 1972, and was on the Lakeside Chautauqua Board of Directors.
Joann and Howard celebrated their 60th wedding Anniversary at a family gathering in 2011.   For 40 consecutive years the Strauch family has celebrated with a family reunion.   Although he would often say this to his family, they believe that Howard truly was a œSource of Strength. 
He will be truly missed but will be remembered with much affection.   Faith, Family, and Friends are how he should be remembered.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Hometown Endowment Fund of the Wooster Corps of the Salvation Army.  A family memorial service will be held at Wooster United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23 (also viewable on Facebook Live at the McIntire Bradham Sleek Facebook page).  A Celebration of Life ceremony will be planned in the future for a larger gathering of friends and family.
Online condolences or messages can be submitted at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
 

Memorial Contributions
Hometown Endowment Fund of the Salvation Army, 437 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691

Service
Private family service with a public memorial service at a later date.

Visitation
No calling hours

52 Comments

  1. I feel like I won the Lottery when it comes to fathers! Howard Strauch was a wonderful Dad, provider, protector, spiritual leader, and teacher. He inspired me to work hard in school and in my career.
    He set a GREAT example of being a loving and supportive husband. I am so impressed that my parents were married for 68 2/3 years. Mom – you picked a great guy to marry!
    Our family has pulled together during this difficult time, and Dave, Doug, and Barb have all helped out and been mutually supportive. We are disappointed that we can’t all come to Wooster at this time, but we are looking forward to celebrating Dad’s life when we can all gather together – sometime in the near future.

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  2. We are praying for the Strauch Family during this difficult and sad time. (from the family of Gary “Mass” Gray)

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  3. I wish to offer my condolences to Joann and family. A wonderful man that I had the opportunity to meet thru Nancy at Lakeside Ohio.. It was a joy to meet other members of the family over the years. I think of Howard as a dedicated worker, husband and family man. He will be missed by many.

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  4. The world needs more Howards in it. Truly one of kind!

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  5. The world needs more Howards in it! Truly one of kind!

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  6. Heartfelt condolences to the entire Strauch family on Howie’s passing. Like all of you, we will miss him very much. We feel fortunate our lives intersected with one whose life was exemplary. Love to all.

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  7. To Joann and all of Howard’s family. I only knew Howard since last year but I truly enjoyed his presence, his humor and his love for his family and faith. Heaven has gained an angel….Dianne Hange, Howard Hanna Realtor

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  8. What a wonderful cheerful man who will be dearly missed.
    Always bringing smiles to everyone especially with his festive plaid blazer at the holidays!
    Thank you for being you Howard.

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  9. A truly wonderful man who has a wonderful family. Howard was always so kind and helpful to me and to members of my family. Great memories.

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  10. Very sorry for your loss.
    He leaves behind many great memories
    and an amazing family that loved him.

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  11. Dan and family, so sorry for your loss. May his memory always be for a blessing.

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  12. David, Doug and the Strauch family. Our condolences from our family to yours. Another City and College of Wooster mentor and Icon has left this earth. His legacy of his family and city and college will always be with us.

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  13. Our deepest sympathies & condolences to the family & friends of Howard Strauch.
    He was a wonderful man… Great Family Pater… & a good steward of the land !
    Michael & Dawn Joniec, Phila Pa, friends of Carol & Dan

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  14. Please accept my condolences for a man who left a map to show his descendants a path to a successful life of service. I saw this through my work with David.

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  15. Please accept my condolences for a man who left a map to show his descendants a path to a successful life of service. I saw this through my work with David.

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  16. Our family and the Strauchs were great friends — especially in Delaware, Ohio. My late father no doubt is happy to see his buddy. A great person with a great family.
    Condolences.

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  17. I always enjoyed talking to him. The most optimistic and cheerful person I think I have ever known.
    Sending heartfelt condolences to the family for this loss. Looking forward to the time we can celebrate his life, together.
    Please take care.

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  18. Sending my sincere sympathies to Mrs. Strauch and family. I met Mr. Strauch while volunteering at the Salvation Army. I had the opportunity to work with him and others on the bell ringing committee. I enjoyed his great sense of humor, his leadership, sharp wit, and his smile that lit up a room! Wooster has lost a genuinely great man who had a huge heart and cared deeply for others and their needs. Rest peacefully. You have truly earned your wings!

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  19. My Mom and Dad, Hal and Aggie Fausnaugh, graduates of Ohio Wesleyan, thought the world of Howard Strauch. When I chose to attend The College Wooster in 1977 he welcomed me to Wooster and the Fighting Scots with open arms. He was a great man and father and will be missed by many. Rest In Peace

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  20. I was a student at Ohio Wesleyan and belonged to the same Delaware Hayes class and Boy Scout Troop (#93) as Howard’s oldest son, David, I got to see Howard from several different perspectives. He was always thoughtful, understated, smart, and kind. Howard Strauch defined the word “classy.” In terms of his parents, Dave was the luckiest guy in the class. Howard Strauch leaves a large footprint on our world. I wish the family the best.

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  21. My sincere condolences to Joann and family. Howard was always kind, thoughtful–and smiling–toward me. A fine life well-lived. . .he will be missed.

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  22. To Your Family, Sorry for your loss.Hayes Class 1970

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  23. Jo I am sorry for your loss. Howard was a great humble man. Michelle and I told often of the couples retreat that we had gone on. You and Howard were an amazing couple and we had such fun sharing that weekend with you. Michelle loved you both and always enjoyed your special hugs, I am sure she is waiting to give Howard his hug. Praying for you and your family.

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  24. Joann, Dave, Barb, Doug and Dan: It was my pleasure to have known Howard for over 50 years. He was always welcoming, helpful and positive with everyone and a great cheerleader for whatever project or cause in which he participated. I will miss his enthusiasm and warm smile. Cherish all your memories of him and keep his spirit in your heart.

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  25. Howie Strauch was a mentor, friend and inspiration to me while at The College of Wooster. We learned from him by simply watching him. Friendly to all, optimistic and always there to lend a hand. His son and daughter-in-law, Dan and Carol are two of my best friends and I’m sending love and sympathy to them both, and the entire Strauch family.

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  26. I am thankful that I had a chance to meet your father and share his love for Christ. My condolences.

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  27. Although it has been many, many years since we have talked to them, the Strauch family, both as neighbors and as friends while in Delaware is still fondly remembered by the Hyer family. From Orchard Heights to Lincoln Avenue, the Strauch family still provide fond memories. After leaving Delaware, anytime someone mentioned Wooster or the College, we would often say “Do you know Howard?” We are honored to have known Howard and the Strauch family. Warren and Brian Hyer, Nancy Hyer Porter.

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  28. Doug became part of my inner circle of friends when they moved here in the late 60’s. I made the trip from Thorne to Gasche more times than I could count over the next several years. Mr. and Mrs. Strauch have always been uniquely special to me and I consider myself one of the lucky ones to know them and the family as well as I did. One special moment was when I ran into Mr. Strauch in downtown Dayton as a young man and we immediately scheduled breakfast the next morning. I got him all to myself :). He always greeted me the same way, regardless of whether I was 13 or 60… “John Boy!” Grateful today for his life, his family, and his influence on this world. One more reason why we call them the greatest generation. RIP Mr. Strauch.

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  29. Howard Strauch was one of the first people to welcome me to campus when I attended Wooster. He always was gracious, kind and encouraging. My heartfelt prayers go out to his family, especially Dan and Carol, Wooster classmates of mine.

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  30. Jo and Children: Please accept my sincere sympathy. I had the good fortune to work with Howie at the College for more than 9 years, from 1979-1988. I can still see him in my mind, walking briskly throughout the Alumni House (at the corner of Beall and University). He was excellent as a Development officer–professional, efficient, hard-working, successful. I learned a lot from him. I always enjoyed seeing his face light up whenever we would run into each other around town; he continued to be a handsome, energetic man who radiated kindness. Please know all of you will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

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  31. Dear Joann and family. Howard was indeed “one of a kind” man in this world. Howard was always cheerful and interested in listening to your ideas and sharing some of his with you. it was really great to see Howard and you at Lakeside, Sunday worship and Faith for Living Hours where he engaged the preacher/speaker with ideas and questions. Shirley and I hold you in our prayers, knowing you will find strength from God.

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  32. My sincere condolences to Dave and the entire Strauch family. I did not know Mr. Strauch but I knew Dave and if Dave is a reflection of his father, his father was truly a tremendous person.

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  33. What a beautiful soul! I so enjoyed my conversations with Howard at Kiwanis meetings and events over the years. He was a great encourager and one of the kindest human beings I have ever met. He will be missed! Joann and family, I pray that all of your wonderful memories with him will bring you peace and comfort in the days ahead. My love to you all.

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  34. Mr. Strach was one of the most memorable, kindest people who ever came into the office at Steiner Insurance. He made such an impression on me as receptionist; & whenever he stopped, we had such pleasant conversations. He just made my day better and no doubt did the same for others. A truly lovely man. Blessings to him and his family.

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  35. My heartfelt condolences go out to Joann and the Strauch family. Howard always had words of encouragement and a genuine concern for others. His wit and jovial manner will be missed.

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  36. I am so sorry to learn of Howard’s passing. Howard was a wonderful colleague who radiated warmth, kindness, dignity, elevation, and life-affirming goodwill. I remain thankful to have been uplifted by his uncommon grace and benignity. My sincere condolences to Joan and the entire Strauch family.

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  37. I had the privilege of knowing Howard as a neighbor on Gasche Street, as a fellow Kiwanian (for some 25 years), and most importantly, as a friend. He was a good and gentle man. My sincerest sympathies to his family.

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  38. It was my great honor to know and work with Howard Strauch. First class gentleman who had a positive impact on everyone he met. Sincere condolences to his family.

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  39. Deepest sympathy and love from the Peterle kids. Our parents’ friendship was both long and legendary. Scott and I share your sentiment about winning the parent lottery, and will always hold dear the memories of our childhood in Delaware and the many adventures of the “William Street Gang.”

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  40. Dear Jo, Dave, Doug and Barb:
    Very sorry to hear of Howard’s passing. Howard added much to my college experience at COW. I (as well as many other classmates of mine) have many fond memories of him as a mentor, role model, counselor and friend. He was always giving of his time and even gave me the keys to his office during finals week so I could have some “real quiet and focused study time.” When I think of how today’s college and university administrators should conduct themselves and interact with students, I often think that they should have had an internship with Howard…they would have learned alot. My sincere sympathies to all of you and your family members.

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  41. I will never forget Howard Strauch. I remember meeting him for lunch with my son, John Ramsier, to discuss John attending College of Wooster. He was such a gentleman and made you feel so comfortable. John did go to COW and I remember keeping in contact with him for a while. God bless Howard’s family. He was a blessing to so many. RIP, Howard.

    Paulette Carbaugh
    Aiken SC

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  42. I was sorry to read about the death of Mr. Strauch (as I knew him). He remembered me even if we hadn’t seen each other in a few years, always greeted me with a genuine smile, and seemed truly interested in how I was doing. My condolences to his family.

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  43. A real hero to us all. Howard was always ready with quick insights and I always looked forward to seeing Howard every Tuesday Noon.. A well lived life.

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  44. Joann, I am sending comfort to you in the death of Howard. You were so kind to me when Dave passed away. It will be an big adjustment, but you will be consoled by friends and family. Take care.

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  45. Dear Jo and family, we have been thinking of you all so much since receiving this sad news. We sent a note to you, Jo, as soon as we heard, but today it came back to us, so we must have an old address. We will try again. We want you to know how dear you and Howie have always been to us, since we first got to know you during our student days at Ohio Wesleyan, and when you welcomed us back to Delaware in 1963 to join the staff at OWU! May God’s love surround you at this hard time, bringing comfort and peace.

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  46. My sincere apologies to Howard’s son, “Dan”…I forgot to add him to my written sympathies post of Sat, 04/25/2020 at 2:50 pm…Dan, my sincere sympathies to you in the passing of your father Howard…what a wonderful man he was…

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  47. My deepest sympathies to Joann and family for the loss of this kind and wonderful man who touched so many lives in
    such positive and memorable ways. I consider it a priviledge to have known Howard from the time I was still practicing
    Dermatology to my years in Kiwanis as a fellow member….Howard was always such a gentleman, so friendly and fun to talk with. My wife and I much appreciated Howard’s kindness and positive influence on my younger son Todd years ago when as a teenager he was participating in Promise Keepers of the Wooster United Methodist Church. So sad that Howard is no longer with us, but what a life well lived and such a wonderful person who will be greatly missed. Take care.

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  48. My deepest sympathies to the family. Fritz and I have countless happy memories of our college of Wooster days. Thank you for your condolences my mother Irmgret Soesemann died the same week and I know it is a tremendous loss. Though they both lived a long life it is not long enough for me.

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  49. I am so sorry to learn of Howard’s passing. We was one of my mentors while I was at Wooster as a student and employee. His gentle spirit was encouraging, and he was a great teacher in the art of philanthropy. May he Rest In Peace. Many blessings and deepest condolences to the family.

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  50. My sister Elizabeth Kerr and I send our sincerest condolences to Jo and the entire family on their loss of Howard Strauch. Howard and Jo were kind and good friends of our mother, Mary Kerr, who left earth last August. Howard had a way of making each person feel special; he was ever courteous, and he asked questions in a way that showed he was really interested. I am especially grateful for the memory of a lovely lunch at the Pine Barn, to which Howard and Jo treated Mother on her 90th birthday, when I tagged along. Sending love, hoping that your many good memories will bring comfort. Elizabeth and I are living in Mother’s former home in Wooster, we’d be glad to hear from you if and when you want to be in touch.

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  51. I just learned about Howard’s passing and want to express my condolences to the family. I grew up in Wooster, and Howard convinced me to attend the College of Wooster back in the 90’s. Once I enrolled, he would call me about every month to see how I was doing. He would treat me to lunch every semester at the college diner. His kindness and support were immeasurably valuable to me as a young man. He would say that I need to keep the balance between the physical, the intellectual, and the spiritual, and he would ask me what I am doing to maintain each of those areas. The last time he took me to lunch was in 2004, long after I had graduated, and he still patiently asked me how I was keeping the balance. The last time I saw him was at my mother’s memorial in 2016. I am so fortunate for the chance to have seen him that last time. Thank you for reading, and again, deepest condolences and love.

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