Joseph Charles Straten, 83 November 13, 2024, Joe Straten of Glade Spring, Virginia, passed away at his home on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Joe lived a full life marked by his dedicated service to his country and commitment to his family.
At age 3 Joe's favorite outfit was his sailor suit. No one was surprised when he joined the U.S. Navy the day after graduating from high school. Joe was 17 and living his dream. For the next 20 years he served on aircraft carriers including the USS FD Roosevelt, USS Ranger, USS Midway. He was leader of the teams responsible for solving airplane engine situations. He earned the title of Master Chief in half the time it is usually awarded.
General Electric Company recognized Joe’s talents and convinced him to join their military aircraft engine business. He handled the sales and follow up contracts of GE military aircraft engines for the countries of Israel and Turkey, which necessitated several visits to each country per year. He retired after working 25 years.
His commitment to community service was also a cornerstone of his life. He served on the Board of Supervisors for Washington County, Virginia, and was an active member of the Board of Directors for Virginia Highlands Community College and the Virginia Highlands airport. He was a tireless champion for service members, having served as Chairman for the Commonwealth of Virginia with the Employee Support of Guard and Reserve, where he worked to advocate for the rights of veterans and their families.
Joe enjoyed learning. In addition to earning degrees from The University of Maryland and New Hampshire College. He was an avid reader, and could often be found solving crossword puzzles. He had a vast amount of knowledge about a great variety of things. Outside of his professional and service endeavors, he greatly enjoyed golfing, fishing, and dining with his friends and family. He was a true wine connoisseur, with an impeccable taste for fine wines.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Dorothy Straten, and his sister, Sandy Alexoff (Dave).
Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Clara Page; his two daughters, Kathleen Kaurup (Jody) and Karen South (Scott Clarke); six grandchildren, Campbell, Griffin, Kate, David, Emily, and Joe; one sister, Peggy Ott (John); two brothers, Larry Straten (Susan) and Ed Straten (Patty); several nieces and nephews; as well as many wonderful friends.
Again, it was no surprise to his family and friends that his final request was to be buried at sea. The United States Navy has agreed to honor this request. The date for his burial at sea is yet to be determined.
Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. Joseph Charles Straten.
My condolences and prayers of comfort to Joe's family. He was one of my dad's ( Max Hermann) best friends and was a delight to spend time with. He had such a great sense of humor.
Thank you to Joe for his years of community service. My prayers and thoughts are with his family and friends. God bless.
Joe was a wonderful friend to us, and we will miss him. I am so very sorry to his family for their loss.
I am so saddened to read about Joe. What a great guy committed to serving his community. Please let me know if I can help in anyway!
Doris Clendenen Shuman