Howard Strabala, beloved father and grandfather passed away peacefully in his home on 2 September 2019. Howard was born January 19, 1932 in Stuttgart Arkansas. He graduated from St. John’s University in Little Rock with a degree in Philosophy. From there, he joined the Army, and was stationed in Germany which gave him the opportunity to develop a love of travel, music and art. He returned to the US, and then joined the Red Cross which led him to meet his “Sweetie” Vera Mercado in Colorado Springs, who was also working for that organization. He and Vera remained married for 40 years. Their children were born in many varying and exotic locations, including Roswell, New Mexico, the Philippines and Minneapolis. They finally settled for good in Minneapolis, and their children went on to complete their educations. While growing up, the kids remember that Howard was known in the neighborhood as the “fun dad”, because he would also join them in sledding, skating, driveway hockey, tennis, softball, board games, etc. His sense of humor is legendary. He was a very good athlete and kept in very good shape, including playing tennis, golf and biking until his very last years. The death of his beloved Vera affected him for the remainder of his years. Howard was a man of great faith, and his family is comforted by the knowledge that he rests in Peace with Vera and his Savior. He is survived by his children, Ron, Kathy, Anne Marie and Sara, and 4 grandchildren. We will miss him very much.