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Paul Strand Obituary
10/06/1945 - 10/09/2023
Paul M. Strand, age 78, of South Holland, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 9, 2023. Beloved husband of Carol Strand, nee Fleischer. Loving brother of Ronald Strand and Douglas (John Bell) Strand. Brother-in-law of John (Judith) Fleischer, Gayle (Roger) Rollins, and Lynne (Douglas) Stebbins. Also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Richard and Susan Strand.
Paul always loved nature. Following his graduation from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, he became a naturalist for Cook County Forest Preserve District, Sand Ridge Nature Center. A knowledgeable teacher, Paul inspired many to appreciate all facets of the environment, but especially prairies, dunes and birds. His influence led other enthusiasts to preserve natural habitats, leading to a significant rise in the number and quality of protected spaces in Indiana and Illinois. An active member of Save the Dunes, Nature Conservancy and Audubon among others, Paul was tireless in his advocacy for our natural world.
Private services will be held. Memorial contributions may be given to Save the Dunes (www.savedunes.org). Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home, Dyer, IN. For more information, please call 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Strand
5 Entries
John Fleischer
October 16, 2023
Paul always amazed me on prairie walks where I'd point and he'd tell us the name of the plant; I do not recall a time he said I do not know! Amazing! Carol we shared lots of life with you and Paul through the years and we are so blessed he was in our lives. May the Lord God grant you peace and comfort as you grieve this loss.
John Fleischer
Brother-in-Law
Sue & Albert Lannin & Ettinger
October 16, 2023
Paul was an effective advocate for the nature he so dearly treasured & enjoyed sharing with others: dune grasses, prairie wildflowers, & the wildlife relying upon these precious Midwest habitats. We were fortunate to walk with him while visiting Sand Ridge Nature Center many years ago.
Ginny Feyes
October 15, 2023
I worked with Paul and Carol at Sand Ridge Nature many years ago. What wonderful information he had about nature, animals and the prairies around the nature center! 19 years ago we moved to Lowell, and although I still belong to Sand Ridge, I'm no longer active. I still receive the newsletter, and enjoy hearing what's going on there, I miss seeing all my old friends, mainly Paul and Carol. My sincere sympathies to you Carol in your loss. Paul was a treasure we will all remember!
Cyndi R
October 14, 2023
Uncle Paul was such an important part of my childhood. I appreciate all the adventures we took with him as kids. My appreciation of nature, and caves are due to many of those. I am so sorry for his loss. I love you Aunt Carol!
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