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Jerry Strang Obituary

Longtime Alaskan Jerry Strang, 71, died Jan. 2, 2011, from a brain tumor.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Jan. 12 at Holy Family Cathedral.

Born Oct. 27, 1939, in Taft, Calif., Jerry received his education from Taft Junior College and through Fresno State. He served in the U.S. Air Force and in 1960-61 during the Cold War, was assigned as a radar specialist out on the Aleutian Chain.

After his discharge he was employed by Chevron Oil, which transferred him to Alaska in 1968. It was here in Anchorage that he met and married Alisa "Petie" Bianco, who was also from the Central Valley of California. When Chevron wanted to transfer him to the Lower 48, Jerry left the company in order to stay in Alaska. He ended his working career in real estate sales at Re/Max Properties and retired in 2002.

Jerry felt deep love for his family, both immediate and extended family, as well as his Alaska family. His passion was his community and his country. He was often seen at Chamber of Commerce and Commonwealth North meetings. He served on the finance council of the Archdiocese of Anchorage and the Anchorage Memorial Cemetery Board. For years he was an active volunteer with Neighbor Works, formerly Anchorage Neighborhood Housing, a low income housing provider. Jerry served there in several capacities, twice as president of the board of directors.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Petie; and two daughters, Gene Strang Behrens and her husband John of Fresno, Calif., and Lisa Strang Layton and her husband John of Waldo, Ohio; three grandchildren, Madalyn, Victoria and Carter Layton; and his brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Judy Strang of Fountain Valley, Calif.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Blanche Strang; and his grandson, Ian Michael.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Catholic Social Services at 225 Cordova St.

Arrangements are with Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel; www.janssenfuneralhomes.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Anchorage Daily News from Jan. 6 to Jan. 7, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Strang

Not sure what to say?





Joseph Snyder

February 1, 2011

Petie: I was deeply saddened to hear of Jerry's passing. We went through High School and played sports together, he was an outstanding friend and I never heard him speak ill of anyone. He will be missed by all that knew him and his passing is a real loss to us all. I do remember that he always took his golf very seriously.
He was a really good man, father and husband. My best wishes to you all.
Joseph Snyder, T.U.H.S., Class of 1957

Jim & LaVaughn Holland

January 29, 2011

How comforting to know that Jerry has been welcomed into the community of Heaven by his devoted family members and his family of friends. It was our honor to know and love Jerry.
"A life well-lived cannot be diminished by death. The beauty, guidance, and inspiration it gave us will shine on as brightly as ever."

January 17, 2011

Petie, you and Jerry were long time patients of mine and more than that I considered you friends. Good Alaskan friends. Jerry was a first class Alaskan and human being...My prayers are with you. Dr. Bill and Marty Day

January 16, 2011

Petie,
You and Jerry were one of the first couples my husband and I met when we arrived at Holy Family Cathedral in 1991. We weren't sure it was the parish for us, but Jerry's encouragement to give it a chance allowed us to put down roots in a very special church. Although we only saw you both on occasion, we always knew we would be greeted with big smiles and caring inquires as to how we were doing. And then running into you both near the entrance to Wells Fargo at the ASRC building was a great break in my day. Rest in the Lord's peace, Jerry.

January 15, 2011

Dear Petie, We know that Jerry had a lot of Problems and was in a lot of pain. He is at rest now and will be missed by so many people. Our prayers are with you now. I think of you often.
Love, Leona & Carl

Carolyn Greiner

January 13, 2011

Petie, Sorry for your loss, Jerry and you were a great team through life. My best to you during this time. Love you and your great neck rubs. Carolyn Greiner (Eagle River, AK)

Jean Stracy

January 12, 2011

Petie,
How fortunate I feel seeing the two of you at Vicky's 70th celebration last summer. When he walked in the door with outstretched arms and a huge smile saying, "Oh, my", "Oh, my", I recognized his very essence. It was the highlight of the trip!! My arms are around you and family as you mourn his passing and, most importantly, remember his loving light.

January 12, 2011

Petie,
I can't believe it's been that many years (1984) when I first met Jerry and you. The Parish Renewal at St Elizabeth Ann Seton with Fr. Ernie. When Jerry shared his life story. It made a great impact on the way that I looked at life and the importance of true forgiveness of one another and this was just a start. Our trails have crossed many times over these years both professanal in real estate and also at Holy Family Cathedral. Today my faith is much stronger and I have learned to pray better for others because of Jerry and you. I know you and we all will miss Jerry until we meet in heaven.
Keeping you in my prayers and God Bless,
Joe Shaw Anchorage, Alaska

Curtis Lester

January 11, 2011

I'm glad to have known you Jerry. I'm going to miss our paths crossing around town as they have. Rest in peace.

Clinton Thomas

January 11, 2011

"I teii you the truth, if any one keeps my word, he will never see death. (John 8:51")
Jerry you will be missed. It was an honor to be your friend. Rest in peace my friend and veteran brother as you venture that journey to "GLORY"

Greg Erkins

January 11, 2011

There wasn't a better man.
There wasn't a better couple.

January 11, 2011

Aunt Petie-

Uncle Jerry will be greatly missed. He was an awesome person - and an especially great Godfather.

XOXX- Alonna

TerriLee Bartlett

January 10, 2011

Petie-I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Jerry. He was a wonderful community member and a dear person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Fr. Paul Macke, S.J.

January 10, 2011

Dear Petie,
Just found out about Jerry's death today when I got an email from a friend. I will be offering Mass for him and praying for you--I have great memories of our times together in M/E
Much love and blessings to you!

Judy and Steve Bell

January 9, 2011

Petie, Teresa forwarded this notice to us. Our memories of you and Jerry are filled with gratitude for all you both did to welcome us into the Anchorage community and to help us get started in construction there. Your faith and trust in us and in the community you served so well was truly inspiring. Thank you both for shining your light for us.

Pat Brown

January 9, 2011

Dear Petie,
I am most saddened by the passing of your wonderful husband. January 26th will mark a year that Peter has been gone and I cannot begin to tell you how horribly I miss him and think of him everyday. I will pray for you and think of you alot. Maybe you and Vicki can fly to New Zealand later on in the year. It will not be easy for you and my thoughts and prayers will be with you constantly. I feel the pain you must be feeling now and wish I could be there to give you a hug. Much love to you as many fond memories race through my head. Pat Brown (New Zealand)

barb mee

January 9, 2011

Petie- saddened to read about Jerry's passing. We shared a table at Chamber many a Monday - and enjoyed lively conversations about EVERYTHING. Our thoughts are with you. Barb Andrews-Mee

Judy Manternach

January 8, 2011

Dear Petie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Though I met Jerry only once, I know how happy & devoted to each other you've been throughout your marriage. I trust you are very proud and you'll enjoy the myriad of wonderful memories the two of you created. Though the void is heartbreaking, our lord kindly spared the awfulness of a lingering situation. Your job is to take good care of Petie, especially during this time of sorrow...pampering & treats to you from you are encouraged.
With love, Judy Manternach

January 8, 2011

Petie, We were so sorry to learn of Jerry's passing. What a pleasure getting to know Jerry better on our visit to Anchorage at your home. What fun we had visiting, and again playing golf at the reunions. Our love and prayers to you and the family.
Tom & Carol

Sandy Franzen

January 8, 2011

Petie,
Such wonderful memories from so long ago!!! Remember the roses? Jerry was a remarkable man and I feel honored to have called him my friend! My thoughts are with you, Gena & Lisa.
Love, Sandy

January 8, 2011

Petie
We just learned of Jerrys passing and could not be more sad of your loss. Jerry was the old timer when I arrived with Chevron in 1970. Our friendship would last over 40 years with his involvement in the community, Catholic church, marriage encounter, the Chamber and more breakfasts and lunches that we could imagine. Jerry was a professional at every level, thoughtful of his loving wife, family, church and community.
Jerry will be missed but never forgoten.
Our love to you, Tom and Allyson Gallagher

Stacy Schubert

January 8, 2011

I will always remember Jerry's hugs at those weekly chamber meetings! The way his eyes sparkled, he'd bring a smile to my face every time I saw him. Thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Molly Jones

January 8, 2011

Petie: So sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. He was truly a gentle and honest man and will be missed by all who were fortunate to have known him. May your wonderful memories sustain you and your family during this difficult time.

January 7, 2011

Dear Petie, Jerry was a sweet gentle person. I will remember him for his winning smile. My prayers are with you and your family.
Joette

Judy Beeson

January 7, 2011

Dear Petie, Even though We only had the pleasure of a few hours with you when we visited Anchorage awhile back you both were so gracious and welcoming into your home and the city you loved so very much. Jerry and you made us feel like we had known you forever. Reading other entries we see that is just how the two of you always were to everyone. Jerry will be missed and you are so loved. Prayers go out to you and your families. In God's name and Glory, till we meet again. Love, Judy & Dick Beeson

Andrew

January 7, 2011

I am sorry to hear about your loss Petie. Jerry obviously made a positive impact on the lives he touched, as well as the community he so dearly loved. I am but one of many that will miss Jerry. We feel blessed that our paths crossed yours and Jerry’s in the last few years. Frank and Shirley in Nevada called and informed me today, their thoughts and prayers are with you.
Andy, Cami and Averie, Anchorage, Alaska

January 7, 2011

Dearest Petie,
You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers as you travel these difficult days of the loss of Jerry. He was such a blessing to my life and I will always cherish the memories of the 2 summer weeks spent with you in Alaska years ago. How blessed that your lives are inter-woven with mine. You are loved and held close during this time and always.
Love you,
Melissa

Paige Hodson

January 7, 2011

Petie, I really enjoyed knowing and working with Jerry over the years. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a very warm, straightforward and honest person. My condolences.

Rob Robinson

January 7, 2011

Hi Petie, Jerry was the listing agent of he first house I sold - in Riverdell Subdivision in Wasilla...I was with Yukon Realty at the time - 1983...Later when I took over the Homes & Land Magazine I was never able to persuade you guys to advertise with me...but I always thought you two were the best H & W team in the biz! (Later, when I married an 'Alisa', Jerry told me that was your name as well -- surprise, surprise!)

My thoughts & prayers are with you.

Rob Robinson

January 7, 2011

Dear Petie,
Jerry's genuine warmth and welcoming presence will be missed but those are your qualties too. You and your family are being held in prayer during this time.
Sister Barbara, Boston, MA

Kelly Gross

January 7, 2011

Aunt Petie, and family ... Uncle Jerry was such an important part of my life. He blessed us all with his laughter, love and wisdom. I will cherish all of the special memories we shared together. Many are those we spent on evenings over at the cross country trail and all the Christmas Eves guessing who "Santa" will be this year. My heart is with you as you remember and celebrate Uncle Jer's life. He will forever have a place in my hear. I love you!

January 7, 2011

Petie,
I am so sorry to hear about Jerry. I have such great memories of you both through the Smiths. We were blessed to have know Jerry. May The Lord lift you up and you will be in my prayers.
Love, Robin Navarre---Katy Texas

Janelle Pfleiger

January 6, 2011

Petie, Love and Prayers to you and the girls..My entire real estate career has been blessed with your mentorship and support! Jerry was such a very special, loving, fun, and supportive friend! He gave back so much in our community! I will miss him very much.. but, most importantly he was the very best Godfather to our three children!! xoxo, Janelle and Rod Pfleiger

January 6, 2011

Dear Petie,

Chamber luncheons and Commonwealth North breakfasts will never be the same without the friendship, the smile and the insights Jerry brought to every meeting. I will miss him as will the many others who shared a meal with him.
May God be with you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Sincerely, Larry Wiget

Larry Imhof, Jr.

January 6, 2011

I'm so sorry for your loss Petie. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Jerry had such a big heart and I know is soul was even bigger. God Bless him! I love you both!

January 6, 2011

Petie, Lisa and Gena: Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at the passing of Jerry. May your happy memories sustain you through your sorrow and your faith remind you that you will see Jerry again. Kevin, Jehri, Brianna, Erin and Braden Clarke (Clovis, CA)

Kathy Kennedy

January 6, 2011

Dearest Petie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jerry was such a special person; a smile and words of encouragement from him on down days always made the world a better place. He will be deeply missed by all of those who's life he touched.

Dan Wolf

January 6, 2011

Jerry was the listing agent on the first house I sold in Anchorage 25 years ago. I'll always remember Jerry's warm smile and firm hand shake. I'll miss Jerry. I'm sorry to see him go.

Peggy Snyder

January 6, 2011

Petie, I am so sorry to hear about Jerry's passing. I have fond memories of you both at Holy Cross, and how helpful you were when we sold our home. I will keep you both in my prayers.

Maureen O'Neill

January 6, 2011

Petie,
Love and prayers to you and your family. I enjoyed working with Jerry at HFC and getting to know both of you. He was a very kind and very much a gentleman. God Bless....

Leila Portell

January 6, 2011

Petie and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Jerry was a great guy and I so enjoyed playing golf with the two of you. God Bless you all!
Leila Portell

Mike & Nancy Sheehy

January 6, 2011

We remember Jerry’s awesome smile and hearty laugh. He seemed to us the outgoing dynamo that we shy types needed to come out of our shells. We got to know him well through Marriage Encounter and Church. Later the currents of life caused our paths to cross less often. When we did bump into each other it was like we’d seen each other yesterday. Jerry would tell us some great story or the latest joke. Jerry was a giver: as a husband, father, church leader, realtor, community member, veteran and friend.
Dialog question We were blessed to know Jerry Strang. HDTMMF?

January 6, 2011

Jerry and Petie helped facilitate our Marriage Encounter sessions ,,I remember him well,,,This was many years ago at the retreat house up Huffman Rd..Sad day!!! Jeanette Puckett

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