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William Strain Obituary
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Born in Providence, a son of the late Patrick and Catherine (Deery) Strain, he had lived in Lincoln for the past 50 years.
Bill was a Lieutenant for the Rhode Island State Police before retiring after 22 years of service. He later became the Chief of Police for the Town Lincoln, a post he held for 20 years before retiring in 2002.
He was a member of the Sons of the Irish Kings, the New England Police Chiefs Association, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association, and the Pawtucket Elks.
He was a member of the United States Coast Guard during the Korean War. He was a former member of Kirkbrae Country Club and Pawtucket Country Club. He was a member of the Wentworth Hills Country Club.
Besides his beloved wife, he leaves his loving children, Keri-Ann S. McLaughlin (Alan), William S. Strain (Tara), Susan S. Guay (Paul), Michael P. Strain, and the late Nancy C. Belisle (David). He is also survived by his beloved seventeen grandchildren; and his beloved great granddaughter.
His Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, July 16 at 10 A.M. in St. John Vianney Church, 3655 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland. His burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Cumberland. The family asks that everyone meet at the Church Saturday morning.
Relatives and friends are invited and may call at Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln Friday 4-7 P.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 would be appreciated. For Directions and Guest Book, please visit www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com.
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Leo Gartsu JR & Family
July 17, 2022
We are so sorry to hear about your father
RIP
Anita Brooks
July 17, 2022
Thank you "Uncle" Bill for being such a wonderful friend to myself and my family. We'll all miss you and your sweet Irish face. Blessings and love to you and your beautiful family. Amen
Paul P. Prachniak
July 16, 2022
I wasn´t in Bill Strain´s inner circle but I did share many a round table with him at official State of RI and Town of Lincoln events. From this I got to know him a bit better..
Bill reminded me of the great actor James Cagney both in looks and Cagney´s roles which included cops, robbers, and street wise kids.
He could box,dance, had a quick quip sense of humor he was Irish to boot and was " the Yankee Doodle Dandy."
and I told Strain as much.
He smiled and " I like that."
The Chief was always supportive of the Cops & Kids
Parks &Rec programs.
oHe was a joker at times- He once told me I couldn´t enter
a local corned beef and cabbage function- It was "For Irish Only!" I told him my confirmation name was Patrick. He allowed me in but said "We´re watching you!"
oHe won the Honest Abe Golf Tournament .He didn´t gloat - But put on his best leprechaun smile.
o He confided in me that he enjoyed The Rolling Stones and reminisced about cruising around with
"Under My Thumb" blaring on the car stereo.
o I liked that he had personally autographed framed picture from Colonel Stone hung in his office.
o I didn´t like that "Biff "would seek me out when the Red Sox would beat the Yankees.
oBill was particularly proud and protective of his family and his officers.
Jimmy Cagney´s tips for success were PLANT YOUR FEET;LOOK THE OTHER GUY IN THE EYES and TELL THE TRUTH. See - I told you Strain was like Cagney.
I wish the Strain Clan, his friends and all those who served with him Peace.
(See a Cagney film or two together)
Sincerely- PRACK
Paul P. Prachniak
Ione Gannites
July 15, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family. I just found out about his passing and was unable to attend the wake. I will always be grateful for all the kindness and support he showed to me and my family when my husband (Duke) passed. RIP Chief.
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Tracey (Stallwood) Gardiner
July 14, 2022
So sorry for your loss. Remember your Dad and his humor. My first meeting was a trip up to NH when my Dad was talking with him about the Lincoln police position. Always a wonderful memory and the many times he and your Mom came to my parents for events.
The Staff of Bellows-Falso Funeral Home
July 13, 2022
Offering our deepest condolences at this difficult time.
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160 River Road P.O. Box 414, Lincoln, RI 02865
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