Donald "Don" Shade Strait

Donald "Don" Shade Strait, 82, of McConnellsburg, PA, passed away Saturday, August 17, 2024 at his residence.

Don was born in Harrisonville, PA on May 9, 1942, a son of the late Blanche (Strait) Hamil.  He was the husband of Charlotte A. (Hixson) Strait, who he married on February 14, 2002.

Don proudly served in the United States Air Force.  He worked at PennDot for over twenty-five years as an equipment operator, which he excelled at.  He was a member of the Knobsville Church of the Brethren in Knobsville, PA.  He was the current Chairman of the Board, which he served in that capacity for many years, and also the Sunday School Superintendent.  He was a past member of the Forbes Road Lions Club and was also the current "Mayor" of Battle Ridge Road, always keeping an eye on things.

Don enjoyed the simple life, going to flea markets because he was always looking for a bargain, cooking soup in his kettles for picnics and spending time with his family and friends.  Don was very sociable and enjoyed talking to anyone, he never met a stranger.  He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.  His favorite title was being called "Pap".

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons Donald A. (husband of Doreen) Strait, of Chambersburg, PA, Todd (husband of BJ) Strait, of McConnellsburg, PA, Zachary Deane (husband of Solvei) Wilt, of Abbottstown, PA, Jared Hixon (husband of Bobbi Jo) Wilt, of Gardners, PA, brother Larry (husband of Connie) Hamil, of Needmore, PA and sister Bonnie (wife of Paul) Buterbaugh, of McConnellsburg, PA.  He is also survived by seven grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by a granddaughter Danielle F. Clapsadle and his first wife D. Sue Strait.

There will be a visitation held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home, Inc., McConnellsburg, PA.  There will also be one hour of visitation held prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

Funeral services will be held at the Knobsville Church of the Brethren, McConnellsburg, PA, at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 22, 2024  with Pastor Bob Bilger officiating.

Interment will be at Siloam Cemetery Harrisonville, PA.

Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Don to the Knobsville Church of the Brethren P.O. Box 425 Hustontown, Pa 17229 or the Siloam Cemetery Assoc.  in care of Harlan DeShong 7534 Pleasant Ridge Rd. Harrisonville, PA  17228.

Arrangements were made by the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.howardlsipes.com.