John A. Strainer's Obituary
John A. Strainer, age 91, passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024, at Sunrise of Cascade in Grand Rapids, MI. John was born on May 25, 1932, to John and Amalia “Molly” (nee Slak) Strainer in Cleveland, OH. John attended Benedictine High School for 3 years and transferred to Garfield High School for his senior year, graduating in 1950. He then did an accelerated course in drafting and engineering at Fenn College for 2 years. Shortly after this, he served his country in the United States Coast Guard and then the Coast Guard Reserve. John was gifted with a mind to solve complex problems with the creation of new products and designs. During his career he was recognized as a highly valued design engineer for aerospace and defense contractors. His proudest contributions were to the M-1 Abrams and the Aurora (a prototype for the unmanned airplane).
John grew up in a very close family and developed a great sense of humor, and an adventurous spirit. He enjoyed photography and astronomy and enjoyed listening to music of all genres. He was known to many as “Red,” a reference to his auburn hair, and was proud of his Slovenian heritage.
John is survived by his first wife (whom he married May 11, 1957) and mother of their four children, Margaret (nee Schrembeck) Strainer; children, Amy (John) Brochu, Jeannine Howell, Margery Richardson, and John (Michelle) Strainer; 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild on the way; and brother, James (Julie) Strainer. On April 29, 1989, he married Marilyn Schumer (nee Dunaj) in Florida, who also survives him. He is preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law, Steve Gulliver.
MASS of CHRISTIAN BURIAL will take place Friday, June 28, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (406 E. Savidge St. Spring Lake, MI 49456) with Rev. Fr. Bill Vander Werff presiding. VISITATION with the family will be 1 hour prior to the service. Burial at Lake Forest Cemetery will take place. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS can be directed to Faith Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services (213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456). Share memories with the family at http://www.sytsemafh.com
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