Walt Strasser, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on August 12, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on December 7, 1935, Walt lived a remarkable life full of creativity, adventure, and a deep love for his family.
Walt's early years were spent in Loon Lake, Saskatchewan, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for nature and the outdoors. While visiting family in Austria in 1938, his mother found use for her shopkeeper qualifications when the family was trapped there for the war. On their later return to Canada, the family settled in London. Walt and Paula then settled together in Barrie.
His educational journey began at H.B. Beal Technical School in London, Ontario, where he majored in the arts, followed by further studies at the Banff School of Fine Arts in 1956. His artistic talents flourished in his professional career as a graphic artist, with significant contributions at Base Aylmer and Base Borden. He leaves behind a legacy of storytelling through his paintings of Sudbury, Barrie, Saskatchewan, Timmins, Muskoka, Orillia and surrounding areas as well as an anthology of his grandkids childhoods, showcasing his quirky sense of humor in his cartoons about them and fictional characters of his own creation.
Walt was a man of many passions. His love for painting and cartooning earned him a place in the Governor General’s collection, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he found joy in fishing, music, and any activity that allowed him to embrace the great outdoors. His enthusiasm for life was reflected in his ability to create beautiful things out of the most unlikely materials. His love of community fostered his involvement with various church organizations like Marriage Encounter, COR, as well as his instrumental role in the establishment of Kempenfest, formerly The Huronia Festival of the Arts..
Walt is remembered fondly by his family and friends for his playful spirit and his role as a prankster among his siblings. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Paula Adrienne Leroux, and his siblings Charlotte, Herbert, and Werner, he is fondly remembered by his children, Walter (Grant) (& Marianne), Karl (& Tracy), Paul (& Colleen), his brother Reini (& Mary), his sister Gerty (& Jim), and extended family. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Sarah, Ariel, Walter (Ian), Aaron, Aiden, Logan, Jacob, Jared, and Rachel.
In his final moments, Walt had a touch of poetic timing, concluding his life amidst the dazzling display of the Perseid meteor shower and the aurora borealis over Loon Lake, reflecting his ever-vibrant spirit over the place where he was born. As the world witnessed this celestial event, Walt’s spirit joined the universe in its timeless dance of beauty and wonder.
Walt Strasser will be remembered for his boundless creativity, his loving nature, and his zest for life. His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him.
A service in celebration of his life will be held at St. Mary's Parish (65 Amelia St., Barrie) on September 28, 2024 at 10 a.m.
As an artist deeply attuned to nature’s colours, Walt drew inspiration from the landscapes of the Canadian Shield. We encourage you to wear colors that reflect the beauty of these landscapes, celebrating the vibrant world he cherished so deeply.
In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honour Walt’s memory by forgiving someone who you find hard to forgive or perform a random act of kindness. As you do so, please think of him and the joy he brought into the world.
Arrangements entrusted to Adams Funeral Home