John Strauss

STRAUSS, John Edward, 67 of Rafdord, passed away, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at his home with his family by his side. A graduate of Virginia Tech with a B.S. in Micro Biology, a member of the Tech Rifle Shooting Team, and a Proud Eagle Scout.

Proudly and honorably served as a medical corpsman in the United States Navy, retiring after 32 years of service. Service to our country included a tour during the Viet Nam conflict where he was awarded a Purple Heart, Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Desert Storm. After serving in Viet Nam, he returned to Virginia enrolling in Virginia Tech. While a college student he continued to drill with the 23rd Reserve Naval Mobile Construction Battalion, ultimately achieving the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. The final assignment in his naval career, he was attached to the Operations Staff of the Navy Surgeon General at the Pentagon, Washington DC.

He was a master instructor with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries,
Volunteered his time to help enrich the education of the Boy Scouts, an NRA Training Counselor, member of the Radford Marine Corps League, and a Member of the Bland Masonic Lodge.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Betty Ann Snidow Strauss, one son John Chapman Strauss and wife Michele and grandchildren Melissa Catherine, John Chapman Edison, and Christopher Adam, one daughter Nancy Ann Strauss Metcalf and her husband Jesse and grandchildren Jesse and Crystal. One special niece, Colleen Eyles and several nieces and nephews. Special friends, Susan Bibb, Diane Bibb Johnson, Dr. Tom Caceci, George Anderson and wife Louise Baker, and many friends.

The family would like to thank everyone for all their loving help and support during this trying time. A special thanks to Chuck Vance and John Yon. The family would also like to thank Hospice and Horne Funeral Home for all their help and support.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and the Riner Rescue Department.