William Francis Strafford

William "Bill" Francis Strafford, age 80, passed away from metastatic bladder cancer on August 14, 2024, at home surrounded by loved ones in Warm Beach, Washington. Born July 27, 1944, on Lopez Island, Washington, he grew up to be a man admired for his kindness, intelligence, humor, and youthful spirit.

Bill's early education took place at St. Mary's School for Boys in Beaverton, Oregon, where he enjoyed being an Altar server, followed by attendance at St. Joseph Marquette Catholic School in Yakima, Washington, and Dufur School in Oregon. He furthered his education at Oregon Technical Institute, earning an Associate of Applied Sciences in Accounting Technology and a Bachelor of Science from Portland State University, equipping him with the skills that would pave the way for a distinguished career in accounting and finance. He served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1965 in Kaiserslautern, Germany, where he was responsible for writing the daily 'morning report'.

Professionally, Bill had a distinguished finance career, working at Siemens-Allis from 1975 to 1980, then at Sealaska from 1980 to 1993 and again from 1998 to 2008 before retiring as CFO. Bill found his calling at Sealaska where he spent 25 years and met the love of his life, Jean.

Bill was a devout member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Stanwood, Washington, where he and Jean were married. Prior to living in Warm Beach, Jean and Bill attended St. John Vianney Mission in Darrington, Washington. Bill's faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with others.

His personal interests were diverse and rich. He enjoyed boating, fishing, walking, gardening, farming, and engaging in home improvement projects. Bill also had a passion for reading, marathoning, the stock market, and traveling. His love for dogs, especially his favorite, Ginger, and his penchant for collecting fuzzy flannel shirts from Costco brought joy to his everyday life.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Jean Strafford; daughters, Dana Hiatt, Irene Strafford, Katrina Strafford; sons, Gerry Strafford and Ben McKay; granddaughter, Akacia Strafford; great-grandson, Gavin Heater; brothers, Jack, Syd, and Richard Strafford; and sisters, Cheryl Zarins and Dorene Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elbridge Gerry and Ann Magdalena Strafford; and siblings, Garie Anne Taylor, Craig Corpe, Mike Corpe, and Dennis Strafford.

A Catholic funeral will be held on Friday, August 23, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Stanwood, Washington, with a viewing from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, including a Rosary from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM, and a Funeral Mass from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. A reception will follow from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with burial at Calvary Cemetery, Seattle, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Bill's life was a testament to his strength, humor, and the deep bonds he forged with all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed.