Donald Frank Strazisar, age 87 of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family Thursday, April 2, 2015. Don was born and grew up in Barberton OH, graduated Akron University, and a member of Lambda Chi Fraternity. He served honorably as Army Master Sgt during the Korean War. He married Marianne, and joined BF Goodrich where his work moved them from Akron to Louisville and finally to Grand Rapids. Don was Winner Circle Salesman of the Year for most of his years with BFG and then Globe Albany. Don started his own company Espirit’D Corp showcasing his innovation and ingenuity in the belting industry. Don and Marianne belonged to St Robert Church, organized dance groups, bowling & golf leagues, bridge clubs and neighborhood committees. Their doors were open to all and hub to many neighborhood activities. Don was an honest, artistic and gentle soul, a creative, energetic, humorous, kind and giving man who will be missed. Don was preceded in death by his father & mother John & Mary Strazisar, mother-in-law Mary Ingarra, and brother John Strazisar. He leaves behind wife of 62 years, Marianne; children Greg, Mark (Natasha), Kathy, Rosanne & Chris (Carmen); adopted children, Jeff and Sue; grandchildren Kristen, Matt (Brittany), Adam (Tealyn), Karleigh, Christian, Kathryn (Joshua); and 4 great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday 11:00 a.m. at St. Robert of Newminster Church, 6477 Ada Dr. S.E., Ada. Rev. Leonard Sudlik presiding. Interment Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Visitation Monday 5-7:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI and one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice, 2100 Raybrook SE Suite 300 Grand Rapids, MI 49546, God’s Kitchen c/o Catholic Charities West Michigan, 303 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, or Humane Society of Kent County, 3077 Wilson NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534. The vacuum created by his passing will be felt by family, friends and the community.
