JOHN W. STRAKA JR.

I still remember John fondly. Never a bad word about him - or by him.
He should have been a high school teacher, preferably in physics. How many more engineers we would have in the country if he had been.
A wonderful guy. The world has too few of his character.

I've been reading John's column for a little more than a year now. He had a great way of telling his stories. I always came away with a better understanding of the way it was, often with a laugh or smile along the way. His stories reminded me of those that my own grandfather had told me. John is most certainly missed.

The world has lost an amazing man with an amazing mind. Started reading his column in our neighborhood News Leader several years back and looked forward to the day each week the paper was delivered so I could see what the weeks topic was. I'm so glad I e-mailed him about a Christmas story he wrote that I related to. He e-mailed me back and thanked me. He will be spending this Christmas in heaven and all others. May God rest his soul.

John was both an amazing and humble man. He taught me a few things about science and astronomy, which were not considered his areas of expertise.
After a conversation with him you came away thinking about the significance of what he had just said.
There aren't many like him. He was with us for many years but will surely be missed.

Paula,
Again, my condolences. You have done an outstanding job as caregiver for your father. I'm sure he will be missed. If there is anything I can do to help please don't hesitate to let me know. Rob Drake

If you had a question about Maple Heights, John knew the answer! His column in the Maple Heights Press was always informative and educational (really miss that). He was always willing to share his faith with everyone and he was such a joy to know. May the Lord Jesus welcome him with open arms.

MY MOTHER.....ANN SORNA STACKO WENT TO ST WENCESLAS WITH YOU. IGOT TO KNOW YOU THRU HER. SHE CUT OUT YOUR ARTICLES FROM THE MAPLE HTS PRESS AND BOUGHT YOUR BOOK ALSO SO THAT ME & MY CHILDREN & GRANDAUGHTER CAN READ HOW LIFE WAS BACK THEN.....AND i MUST SAY i BELIEVE IT WAS WONDERFUL COMPARED TO LIFE NOW IN MANY MANY WAYS. THANK YOU FOR THE MEMORIES.....GOD BLESS YOU. WITH PRAYERS & SYMPATHY FOR YOUR FAMILY.

Looked forward to reading Johns articles every week. Had the pleasure to meet John at Swagelok last year. He will be truly missed.
Rick Grasela
Swagelok

"Very intelligent and warm hearted man. He touched many lives, and his legacy will live on them. condolences to his family."