Roland J. Strasser

Roland J. Strasser, age 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, November 21, 2021, at Arborview Manor in Oshkosh. He was born on April 17, 1927, to the late William and Erna (Lehr) Strasser.

Roland enlisted in the US Navy at the age of seventeen. He served on the USS Virgo (a supply ship) in the South Pacific during World War II. After two years in the Navy, he returned to Oshkosh and met the love of his life, Betty Tenant at the Peacock Lounge. They were married on June 8, 1949, and together raised five children in Oshkosh.

During the early years of Roland’s marriage, he worked at the Chief Oshkosh Brewing. He later applied for a job at the US Postal Service and worked there for about thirty years as a mail carrier.

Roland loved to go golfing with his friends and family. He wasn’t the greatest golfer in the world but, he was a top-notch cribbage and sheepshead player. Rol also liked to bowl, and he played softball when he was younger. After these activities he would enjoy socializing with his buddies at Repp’s, Rumlow’s. Pete’s, and Leidl’s for a few cold ones.

Roland’s love of music led him to sing in the church choir. He also taught himself to play the trumpet. He played mostly by ear, not by notes on a page. The music from his beloved trumpet could be heard throughout the hallways at his apartment complex.
Roland and Betty enjoyed their retirement years and spent time at their favorite vacation spot, Voss’s Lodge in Manitowish Waters. They would often take scenic drives around the countryside to view nature and the old farmhouse. All of these drives would usually end up in Pickett for ice cream cones.

Roland was a devoted family man and a good provider. His unconditional love and support for his family found him attending various sporting events and school activities. Roland was extremely proud of all his children, grandchildren, and all of their accomplishments.

Roland is survived by his children: Dawn (Fritz) Richter of Waukesha, James (Patti) Strasser of Oshkosh, Robin (Craig) Whitney of Oshkosh, Collin (Sue) Strasser of Germantown, and Jill (Bill Radtke of Oshkosh; 14 grandchildren; and 23 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Strasser; parents; and five siblings.

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring of 2022.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Arborview Manor Staff and Heartland Hospice for all their kindness and care provided to Dad.