Elmer Joseph Strang, 92 years old, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2021, devoted husband of 66 years to Marian Regina nee Nolan, loving son of the late Nicholas Strang and Florence nee O Shea, caring brother to the late Kenny Strang, treasured and beloved father to the late Barbara Hansen and Mike, Douglas Strang, Robert Strang, Beth Eganhouse and Ken, Kim Lynch and Dan, Amy Recker and Greg, and Steven Strang and Heather, adored grandfather of 17 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, and loyal friend to so many.
Elmer was raised in Cascade, Iowa and met the love of his life Marian at a local dance. He served in the U.S. Airforce during the Korean War. He was a brilliant mechanical engineer and an inventor with a prolific career that included time at The Coats Company where he developed a patent winning tire changer, General Manager of Bush Hog, and finally at Lozier Corporation in Des Moines. There was nothing Elmer, who fondly became known to all as Big E, couldn’t do or fix on his own. With his precision perfect architectural drawings, he was an accomplished carpenter for numerous projects for his and his children’s homes. You could also count on him to know a good bit on almost every topic that might come up. He loved listening to many genres of music and playing bridge and other card games with Marian and many friends over the years.
Ever since their time together at the University of Iowa, he and Marian have been avid and devoted Hawkeye fans. Parishioners of Sacred Heart Church, they often went to daily mass together. Elmer stayed active volunteering over the years at Dowling Catholic High School and the American Legion. He charmed us all with his boundless kindness, probing mind, deep faith, humility and generosity. Our beloved and unique Big E will always be with us in our hearts and memories.
Due to Covid considerations, funeral services are for immediate family only. Your prayers for his beautiful soul to be lifted into God’s palm are greatly appreciated. In lieu of flowers, we would be grateful for your donations to Dowling Catholic High School.
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