Bill Dean Strain, age 77, of Ozark, MO, went to be with the Lord on Monday, May 28, 2012 surrounded by his family. He was born March 3, 1935, in Thayer, Missouri, to Eunice and Posey Strain. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Don Strain, Dale Strain, Noel Strain, and Riley Leon Strain. He leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Alice Sue Strain, son Brian and his wife Brenda Strain, daughter Teresa Brophy, daughter Angie and husband Kelly Wilson; grandchildren Holly Strain, Jason Strain, Charlie and wife Sarah Wilson, Jeanie and husband Matt English, Corinna Brophy, and Daphne Brophy; great-grandchildren Skyler Strain, Ethan Strain, Maliah Strain, Wyatt Inmon, and Miles English.
Bill’s passion in life was family, friends, and fishing. He enjoyed serving the public as a meat cutter for over 40 years until his retirement. After retirement he spent his time volunteering for various children’s organizations. Papa’s love of children led him to work with the Ozark school system as a bus driver and a reading buddy for many 1ST grade children. As a father, he instilled in his children a strong work ethic, faith in God, and a belief that they could accomplish anything. They knew he was always in their corner, a champion for his children. As Papa, he taught his family how to laugh, love, and live life to the fullest. To his friends, he was a wise counselor, a trustworthy confidant, and a loyal companion.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Bill’s life on Friday, June 1, 2012 at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, 3540 E. Seminole, Springfield, MO. Family will receive visitors at 1:00 p.m., with the memorial service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Always a lifelong learner, Bill would say, “I know a lot about nothing.” In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established to allow his great grandchildren to further their educations. Contributions can be made at any Empire Bank in memory of Bill Strain.