William Dean Strawsma

A celebration of life service was held held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, at Montgomery-Viets Funeral Home in Buffalo. William Dean “Bill” Strawsma, 59, was born March 3, 1951, in Lafayette, Ind., the son of Richard and Irma Strawsma. He died Feb. 4, 2011, at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, after struggling with cancer for several months. He was blessed with two children, whom he loved dearly. His family was ultimately important to him, and he loved them unconditionally, ever forgiving. His wife was a friend for many years before they married, and her family was a part of his heart as well. He moved to Windyville in the spring of 1987 and built his home and farm from bare beginnings. He loved working with animals and working the land. He was happiest when he was outside with his dad putzing around, working in the barn and putting up hay. He worked at Key Industries until it closed and made many, many friends in the process. He was a kind, patient, caring and gentle man who respected those around him. In 1996, he became the fire chief of Windyville Fire Department and worked hard to build the assets of the department. He derived great joy in assisting the members of his community in times of need. He became a medical responder in order to help his neighbors even more. In the last season of his life, he benefited from help from so very many people. His best friend, Tom Hays, was invaluable. His son-in-law, Brian Kramer, helped in so many ways, encouraging him and helping to make sure he was part of every process. His brother-in-law and family, Robert, Sharon and Nikki Westcott came up from Arkansas and tended his garden and helped immeasurably. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jennie Lou Strawsma, who died at the age of 12 from ovarian cancer; and his mother, Irma Strawsma, in October 2003. Survivors include his wife, Kathy Kesler-Strawsma, of the home; his children: Tegan and husband, Staff Sgt. 1st Class Brian Quigley, stationed in North Carolina, and Seth and wife, Vila Strawsma, Lebanon; his father, Richard Strawsma, Lafayette, Ind.; his sisters: Bonnie Wharton, Barbara Strawsma, and Marilyn and husband, Randy Rottler, all of Lafayette, Ind.; his brother, Robert and wife, Mary Strawsma, Lafayette, Ind.; his daughter through life, Joanna McDairmant and her best friend and life partner, Brian Kramer; his grandchildren: Eve Quigley, Caleb McDairmant, Ben Quigley, Randy Young, Ethan McDairmant and Michael Nanthavong.

William Dean Strawsma

March 3, 1951 - February 4, 2011