Gordon W. Strauss, age 74, a resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Friday, October 25, 2024, at his home with his loving wife by his side.
Gordie was born on November 15, 1949, in Milwaukee to the late Herman and June (Reilly) Strauss. He attended St. Gregory’s Catholic School in St. Nazianz, and then went on to attend Valders High School. In 1966 he joined the United States Navy and proudly served his country from 1967-1969 until his honorable discharge. Gordie was very involved in the local Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 731 and was instrumental in the starting of the local Gold Star Families. Gordie married Charlene Reno on September 14, 1973, at St. Andrew’s Church in Manitowoc. In addition to volunteering his time with the Vietnam Veterans Honor Guard, he loved riding his Harley, walking his dogs, restoring tractors and gas pumps, singing karaoke, and putzing in his yard. Gordie also enjoyed watching his purple martins nest in his yard and caring for his vegetable garden. Above all, Gordie loved spending time with his family and friends and making everybody laugh with his jokes.
Gordie is survived by his loving wife of 51 years: Charlene Strauss; siblings: Dick Strauss (Nancy), Randy and Shelley Strauss, Carol and Peter McDonell, Gary Strauss (Jessica); brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Bonnie Strauss, Darwin Reno (Noretta), Richard and Darlene Reno, Karen Reno, Davis and Yvonne Reno, and Ron and Sally Reno. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Herman and June Strauss; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Willard and Gladys Reno; four siblings: Jerry Strauss, Patricia Strauss, Jack Strauss, Mary Litersky; brother-in-law: Ken Reno; and sister-in-law: Joan Faber.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, 628 North Water Street, Manitowoc. The service will be officiated by the Rev. David Beaudry. The family will greet relatives and friends from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Immediately following the service, Gordie will be laid to rest at Knollwood Mausoleum, where Military Honors will be accorded by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 731 of Manitowoc. A luncheon will then be held for family and friends at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, located on the south property of the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
Gordie’s family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to Doug Strauss for all the help while Gordie was ill and the staff of Aurora at Home Hospice for their compassionate care. A special thank you to Kayla for all the help she gave Charlene during her time of need.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Gordie’s name to the Lakeshore Humane Society.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
