William D Straba

William (Bill) Donald Straba

     Son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and veteran, passed away after a year-long struggle with his health on Monday, October 19, 2015. He was born to Geza and Sylvia Straba in Owosso, MI on May 30, 1933.

     After graduating from high school, he was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. After serving two years, he was honorably discharged and returned home to Owasso where he married his childhood sweetheart, Betty Lou Skutt.

    Bill attended vocational college in Big Rapids, MI. He moved his family to Chicago briefly, and then followed his brother to New Mexico where he found work as a salesman for the Jewel Tea Company. He retired from the company after 33 years of service.

     He was a hard-working, simple man who enjoyed the outdoors. After retirement, he continued to enjoy fishing, metal detecting, gold prospecting, and contributing to the local gaming industry.

     He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 53 years Betty Lou Straba; and his brother Robert Straba. He is survived by his sister, Dorothy Caldwell; his son Bill and his wife April Straba; daughter Debra George; and daughter Tamara and her husband Martin Dimmitt; four grandsons; three granddaughters; seven great-grandsons; and six great-granddaughters.

     A Viewing in his honor will be held on Monday, October 26, 2015 from 6-7 p.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Services located at 7601 Wyoming Blvd. NE. There will be a Rosary immediately following the Viewing.

A Mass of Christian Burial in his honor will be held at Risen Savior Catholic Community on Tuesday, October 27, 2015 at 10 a.m. at 7701 Wyoming N.E. His Burial Service with Military Honors will be held at Santa Fe, NM National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.