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Philip Straley Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Philip Straley
Daniel aka Corky Harrington
October 10, 2010
It does not seem possible that Phil has been gone a year already. Thanks to Judi for the Pic of Phil next to his jet and at a cookout with his cowboy hat and cooks apron on, I think of Phil with fond memories quite often. As I sit here at my PC I have a wall of Pics and Phil's is right there front and center. I will always miss him but he still brings a smile to my face on a regular basis. God Bless Phil, Judi, Steve and the entire family. DJH
Judi Straley
October 9, 2010
I miss you, my one and only, will love you forever, and know you will be waiting for me. All my love,
Judi aka Frump
Phil Brandt
August 16, 2010
I was shocked to learn today (from our upcoming Nellis F-111A reunion list) of Strales' untimely passing. We were in the same F-111A class that started at Nellis in Sep 1973, and I never forgot his legendary hijinks, whether at Nellis or Takhli. I regret losing track of him for at least the past two decades, but it was a distinct pleasure knowing him in those early years; those were great times! My deepest condolences to his wife, children and family.
Karen Stivers Norman
August 4, 2010
Today, I was saddened and shocked to hear about the loss of Phil. I read the news in a Coe College newsletter this morning. Phil and I were at Coe together , where he was always a charismatic presence--noone could miss his big smile or forget it. I left Coe in '69, but I will always remember his "high beam" personality. He has left a huge legacy of memories for those who knew him.I send my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Judi, and his family.
Paul Rietschel
June 30, 2010
It's been a long, long time since I saw Phil, but I never forgot him. We were two of the volunteers from the old 522 TFS that went to SEA for the end of the festivities and some of us never really went back. If it were not for the efforts of some to set up a reunion of that old squadron, I never would have know that Phil was lost. My memories of him will always include a big smiling face, loud voice and a guy who needed my help to make sense of his checking account. To his family, please accept my condolences and know that Philip touched a lot of people and I'm sure we all remember a wonderful guy.
Karl and Rachael Provost
June 21, 2010
I was searching the internet to try and find Phil and Judi and found the news of his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Judi and his family. We love you both very much,
Karl and Rachael Provost
Dave and Lisa Orr
May 11, 2010
We absolutely adored our 'Knight 1' and the first lady of the 308 FS Emerald Knights. Strales was an inspiration to all of us and a great example of our fighter pilot heritage. Please accept the Orr's heartfelt condolences to Judi and the Straley family.
December 30, 2009
I'm sorry to hear so late of this...Check 6 Strales!...I'll throw another nickel on the grass...Eager (Lt Col Dean Dodson)
Colonel (ret) Steve & Elaine Ladd
December 29, 2009
How sad to hear belatedly about the passing of a talented fighter pilot and a very good friend. Elaine and I were very close to Strales and Judi at RAF Bentwaters in the early 80s (when he flew a REAL airplane with the 92nd TFS). We shared their joy on the birth of Anna,had a million laughs together
and marveled at Strales' ability to insert a whole baked potato into that big smile!To Judi and family, our most sincere condolences--the Big Guy will always have a big place in our memory.DB, Strales-- We'll miss you.
Alan Sandell
December 15, 2009
Judy, Anna, James, Steve, Judy J B and Cathy. It is with great sadness to learn of Phil's passing. We send you our most sincere condolences. I first met Phil Christmas 1974 at Dennis Fienburg and Mike Kay's house in Lower Heyford, where over a few tots of rum we became friends. We have not seen much of each other over the last few years but I will always remember the great times that we shared. There are many stories that could be told, some of which would not be believed. Wherever they are told Phil will always be remembered for the legend that he was. Once again our sincere condolences from Alan, Dawn, Maxine and Bruce Sandell. Selsey, England
Gene Walker
November 30, 2009
So sorry to hear of Phil's untimely passing. I knew Phil well during his time at RAF Upper Heyford and I was proud to call him friend. I have been out of touch these recent years, but Phil's name always came up when talking with old friends from those days. He will be missed!
Cyndy McCrary
November 13, 2009
Philip Straley was one of the most kindest men I have ever known. Every time he was in Memphis to do his training, he would drop by Doc Wastons where I am the bartender, to have a beer with the other pilots and co-workers of FedEx. My husband works in Avionics at FedEx and he also knew Phil. We were truly sorry to hear of his untimely death. Our hearts goes out to you all. Phil will be missed by all of us here in Memphis.
Cindy Nixon Pettry
November 4, 2009
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Phillip Straley. His name has brought back so many memories as my father, Charles Nixon, was so closly associated with the Straley family. He was the pilot for AIR IOWA and worked at the airport for so many years. My family and I now live in Tucson and saw the notice in the newspaper. I still see the house and the Clinton airport in my mind as I write this. Know that I am thinking of you at this difficult time. Cindy Nixon Pettry
Gary Fox
November 4, 2009
I went to school with Lip from the time they moved in from country school until graduation. We were in football, basketball, and track together. You always waited for Mondays because he would have some interesting tale of what he did over the weekend. He was always very entertaining at class reunions. You always wondered what he was going to do next. The Class of 66 will miss him.
DENNIS GRANQUIST
October 30, 2009
Phil,was a great fighter pilot who I had the honor of serving with in Europe and at GCSC in Leavenworth KS. Phil and I shared an apartment for a brief time at Langley AFB 1985-1985 when we were stationed together. We spent alot of good times together. He was always looking out for others and was always willing to help out his friends. I was shocked at his passing but know he had a positive impact on everyone he knew. Thinking of you, Judy and your family! God Bless.
Jack Funke
October 28, 2009
I am saddened to hear of Phil's passing. I knew Phil while flying F-111s in Takhli Thailand in '72-'73.
He was one of a kind, the soul of political incorrectness, and a fine person. My deepest sympathy to you, the family.
Sincerely,
Jack Funke,
LtCol, USAF Retired
Kevin Smith
October 27, 2009
Still processing all the tears, joy, sadness and fun. Most of all thinking of the wonderful Straley family and all you mean to each other. It was great to be part of it all in Tucson last week. Rest in peace, Col. Straley. Keep Stephen Laurence, Aunt Virginia and Uncle Larry company. Gramma Helen and Grandpa Laurence could use a big hug from their nephew, too. And don't hog the best seats for Hawkeye football.
Beth, Greg and Grey Keetch
October 26, 2009
Judi
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Phil will be missed by all. His kindness touched our lives and we are richer for having known him. He was an inspirational leader with that rare ability to elevate those around him. Strales, thanks for everything you did for us.
William Patton
October 25, 2009
Phil was indeed a legend although I only got to know him personally for a short time at Ft. Leavenworth (Command & General Staff College). My condolences to his family & friends.
David Whitney
October 24, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to Judy and family, Steve and JB. I have fond memories of Phil "lighting up" the room whatever the occasion. On whatever side of the bar I found myself, he comported himself in a gentlemanly and jovial manner and was a true joy to behold. I consider myself fortunate to have made his acquaintance. Fly, boy....you have truly earned your wings.
Tom Bower
October 24, 2009
JB, Steve, and Lip's family. My heartfelt condolences to all of you. When first given the news, I felt like someone had hit me in the face. So many memories starting flooding back to our high school days and what fun days they were.
Lip's been taken from us way to soon and he will be sadly missed by all that knew him. I liked the comment I read in this guest book that said he was a "pilot's pilot". I know he's always loved his flying and now he is taking one more flight. So up, up and away my friend and Rest in Peace.
Mike Marr
October 23, 2009
My deepest regrets to you all the family of "Lip". I grew up with Lip, JB, and Steve and had lost track of them all, what an awful way to find an old pal.
Rest in peace Lip.
robert schneller
October 23, 2009
I first met this lovely couple at Thirsty's in Tucson when I worked there and was always impressed at not only the stories Phil told but by the amount of "LIQUID" they both could consume.Ah,the price of having fun.I always enjoyed their company at the bar as they always treated me with a great deal of respect.Judy,Phil will be missed.
If you can ever be in contact , E-me at [email protected] another bartender who tried to make you smile.Stay well Judy...All my best to you and yours.
October 23, 2009
I met Phil for the first time when bartending at the Horn. It was always fun to see him come in and get the group going on one thing or another. My prayers are with the Straley family. It was always a pleasure to see him. Blake "doc" Johnson.
October 23, 2009
Dear Philip,
It is difficult to fathom a world bereft of the joy and laughter that you brought to it each glorious day while you were here. As you traveled this journey living an inspired life, you endeared yourself to and lifted the hearts of countless lives around the globe. Because you seized the day all our lives are transformed for the best. As is said in these parts, muy bien hecho, very well done! God embraces you, your family and your endless stream of friends in loving grace to facilitate all healing necessary now. Your stay was brief, your departure too soon. The love you imparted, however, will remain with each of us forever. We salute you Colonel, and honor you as we "keep on smiling".
Our love and gratitude forever,
Charlie and Mary
Shaun & Sharon Kenney
October 23, 2009
We are so sad to hear of Col. Phil Straley's passing. Our condolences to Judi, Steve & Judy and the Straley Family. Col. Straley was truly an All-American Hero from an All-American Family. Rest in peace, Col. Straley and until we meet again, here's to you.
Lois Jones
October 23, 2009
Dearest Judy and family,
What a shock to learn that our Strales has left us. An endearing friend and loyal commanding officer. I often look through our photos of Thanksgiving and Christmas get togethers with the DM team and remember the warmth that both you and Strales extended to our family.
What a Blessing he was in our life - our "Uncie"
My girls and I extend our most sincere condolences to you and your family. He was a special man and will be missed.
With Love,
Lois, Rebecca, and Natalie Jones
Dean Agardi
October 22, 2009
Judi and Family,
I first met Phil at RAF Upper Heyford, UK, when he was flying F-111’s. I was one of the crew that towed him back to the shelter one night after a sideways ride on an icy taxiway in an F-111. We met at The Horse & Groom Pub, and Hopcroft’s Holt many times. We were then reacquainted at DM when he was 12th AF IG. We enjoyed great times in Tucson at McGraws Cantina, as well as Pecos and Dianne’s cabin, and Charley Clark's Steakhouse in Pinetop. He was a great guy and friend to all. Rest in peace big guy - keep watch over all of us.
Dean and Marilyn Agardi, Tucson, AZ
Katherine & Larry Goldstein
October 22, 2009
My thoughts go out to you and your family. I remember many wonderful times with "the Colonel". He was a joy to be around and in rememberance John Boy and Larry will be having Elgin sausage which, he really loved.
October 21, 2009
Judi,
I was in shock after reading your email about Phil. I can't believe our big "Teddy Bear" is gone. You and all the family are in our thoughts and prays. I miss flying with you and hearing about your guy. Your meeting and marrying was truly a love story.
I am so sorry.
All our love,
Judy(SWA f/a)and David Drummond, Georgetown, TX
Cheryl Konter
October 21, 2009
Mrs. Straley and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. I flew with Phil on the 727 to South America a few years ago. Phil was a great man and a great pilot. He will be deeply missed.
Cheryl Konter
MD-11 F.O. Anchorage
October 21, 2009
My deepest condolences to Phil's family. I had the pleasure of growing up with Phil and his brothers while attending Camanche Elementary 1st thru 8th grade. I speak from the heart when I say he was the "nicest boy ever". My only regret is that I never knew him later in life. We were able to share a few memories at Camanche's Class of "66" reunion in 2006 even though I was a graduate of another high school. When I came up to him and introduced myself and asked if he remembered me, he most graciously said "Yes Donna, I remember you". That truly made my day since I felt a little nervous not being a true graduate of Camanche High School. God has called home a wonderful man, rest in peace Phil, you were so loved. Donna Lorenzen Laufenberg, Crossville, TN
Derek Rydholm
October 21, 2009
Our hearts go out to the Straley family in this time of great sadness. Phil was a great guy to work for, fly with and be around. We will miss his positive spirit and the fun everyone had around him. Derek, Linda, Meagan and Alex Rydholm
Ellen Pongrace
October 20, 2009
Phil Straley will forever in our hearts be a one of a kind man. Let us celebrate such an honorable, dedicated, and passionate soul. Phil will always be a true friend, a belly laugh, a deep voice, a Santa, a committed commander, and a family member to us. We love you with all of our heart Strales. Thanks for always being you. The Pongraces are richer people for having been such a big part of your life. Rest in peace our dear friend. Love, Ellen, Joe, Matt, and Jake Pongrace PS: Matt says that this only inspires him to work harder at Boom operator training for the AF- He wants to make Uncle Phil PROUD.
Rob Koenig
October 20, 2009
I send my sincerest sympathy to Phil's family. I was fortunate enough to run into Phil just a few days prior at FedEx and chat with him. He was jumpseating home that night and was happy to be going home.
I shared a crashpad with Phil in Memphis for a few months and also knew him from the AF before FedEx. A great guy who will be sorely missed. I will think of him everytime I tip a Captain Morgan and coke. Time to go sailing again!
Don Shires
October 20, 2009
I am writing to extend my deepest symphathies to Judi, Steve, and JB. I was saddened to hear of your loss.
Steve Moore
October 20, 2009
I am greiving Phil's passing. I've only flown with him for a few years, but as I told my wife, Phil was just a magnificent guy. I will miss his booming voice and wonderful humor. May God comfort you and us all. Steve Moore, Fedex 727 Captain/LCA
Tim and Carie Schultheis
October 20, 2009
We were deeply saddened to hear of Phil's passing. Our condolences go to Judi, JB, Steve and all of Phil's family. My brother just commented this summer at CCC member-guest that it wasn't the same without the Straleys. The matches with Phil and JB will never be forgotten. He will be greatly missed.
Bob Jolly
October 20, 2009
Judy, you know Fedex is missing a great pilot and even better person. Wish I had some words to help.. but still in shock of this whole ordeal !!
You have a great family and hope they continue to help you in this tragedy.
Sorry we all had to meet this way. I miss that booming voice already.
Ron Atherton
October 20, 2009
I recall the story of how Phil and my bother Mike Atherton meet. It was in a bar, of course, in Thailand. The bartender asked my bother if he knew the guy at the other end of the bar. Mike said, “No he did not, why?” The bartender said it sounds like both of you are talking about the same thing, each one of you single handily winning the fight to save your home towns from the Mississippi River flood during the spring of 1965. (It might have 67 too). Phil was on the Iowa side and Mike was on the Illinois side only a few hundred yards apart. That is all it took for those two to be friends for life. Bonnie (our sister) commented, “Heaven help Heaven now that the two of them are both there!” I will throw a nickel on the grass for both of them tonight.
John Stirling
October 20, 2009
Dear Judi and family
I was so saddened by the news about Strales, especially after our very short time together in Pahrump. We spoke about Anna being so close to us here in Scotland and he wanted us to make contact with her over here.
Perhaps Judi, if you think it appropriate, we could still do so.
The thoughts and prayers of Irene and I are with you and yours at this time and we give you all much love especially over the forthcoming months but also into the future.
Please call us if you need us, especially in Scotland, we will be there for you. Pounder and Irene Stirling. xxx
Mike (Mongo) Lambirth
October 20, 2009
Judi and family, I am so saddened by the tragic loss of Phil ("Strales" to many of us) that words are hard to come by. He was a great friend and pilot who truly seemed larger than life. His friendship, smile, optimism and booming presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Bonesy Dolan
October 20, 2009
Phil was a one-of a-kind man. I knew him as friend to my father and then a friend to me. The saying is "to know him was to love him" that just does not fit Phil. To know him was a blessing, for you had been given the gift of a life long friend. I miss him and my heart and prayers go to the family. When my dad intoduced me I knew I met a friend, but I never thought until now that I would be a better person because of it.
Thank you Phil, I am glad I knew you and certainly loved you.
Now find my old man and have some fun.
Daniel (Corky) Harrington
October 20, 2009
I have never heard 1 derogatory word with regards to Phil Straey. He was one of a kind and treated any and everyone with respect. Once you met him you had a friend for life. I have more respect for Phil than most of the people I have come across on this planet. He was a "Class Act" and one of the funniest people I have ever shared cocktails with. He lit up the room with his totally infectious Style and Smile. I am heartbroken over this loss.
My prayers go out to Judy, Steve and the rest of the Family. To Phil, I know where you are, I know who you are with and I also know you're in 'Damn Good Company'. God Bless and Keep You.
Viya Con Dios Amiga !!!
Dan Harrington aka..Corky
Col Steve Van Every, USAF (Retired)
October 19, 2009
I was saddened to learn of Phil's death. He was a fellow Kohawk and Air Force comrade. The last time I saw Phil was when he was the 12th Air Force Inspector General (IG) team chief and he was inspecting the 132d Fighter Wing. We had also gotten met at the Officer's Club at RAF Upper Heyford, United Kingdom when we were both stationed in Europe. The flying world has lost a legend.
Rita Atherton
October 19, 2009
I was stationed at Langley AFB with Phil -- he never met a stranger, and he was the party. But what I will always remember about Phil, was that when I went PCS to Davis Monthan, he told me to look up a buddy of his -- Mike Atherton. I did, we married, and it resulted in two great sons. Rest in peace Phil.
Meredyth Metcalf Dinniman
October 19, 2009
My kids and I are so, so sorry for your loss. Phil was a great man and adored by many.
Kevin McAuliffe
October 19, 2009
Dear Judi; Anna & James; Trent & Karita; Steve & Judy; J.B. & Kathy. It has been an honor and pleasure to have known and worked with Phil(Strales) these past 13 years. He has lived with me for ten of those years and we have had many laughs and great memories. He was like a big brother to me. He was a large voice to so many and will be greatly missed but never forgotten. I leave with an Irish toast to my great friend:
May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
The sun shine warm upon your face
The rain fall soft upon your fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
curt leblanc
October 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Bob and Soni Parker
October 19, 2009
Our hearts go out to Judi and the rest of Phil's family. He was a real neighborhood asset, and we'll miss him hosting the 'Party after the party' following our annual CEHA block party. Hand salute to a fellow Viet Nam vet!
Jerry Variola
October 19, 2009
My wife Laura and I send our deapest sympathies to the entire Straley Family. We have known Steve for quite some time and had the pleasure of meeting Phil just a short time ago. May God be with you all.
Roxanne Shearn
October 19, 2009
Thoughts and prayers to your family. Phil was a kind and gentle soul. Peace be with you.
October 19, 2009
In your time of sorrow may it ease your pain to know that others are thinking of you.
Janet Bell Pederson and Gary Pederson
October 19, 2009
Bob and I send our love and prayers to Judi, Steve, JB and those Phil loved. Phil made the last 43 years memorable, enjoyable and always entertaining! We loved him like a brother and will miss him dearly. There is NO ONE like Phil! Bob and Julie Urosevich
Lorna Kipphut
October 19, 2009
I was Phil's neighbor when we were both stationed at Langley AFB in VA in the mid-80's. He was a great friend and a super officer. I am even sadder when I realized it WAS Phil I saw walking a few years ago on Sabino Canyon Rd. and I didn't stop and check. Many condolences to his family.
Jerry and Mary Lou Kenney
October 19, 2009
Mary Lou and I will miss out friend Capt/Col Phil.Our prayers are with Judi and family.We will always recall his weather reports from 31L prior to take off from Spokane,Wa.Mary Lou and Phil were soul mates when the conversation came to politics. God speed old friend we will miss you!!!
October 18, 2009
Our hearts and sincerest condolences go out to Judi and Phil's family. Phil was always the life of the party.
Bulldog and Debbie
Pat Evans
October 18, 2009
I am just shocked to hear of Phil's passing. He always seemed so invincible. I just couldn't conceive that after all he had been through that a car accident would take him away from this world. He was such a well loved and well respected man. I will always remember seeing his eyes light up when he would walk into the bank and see his lovely wife, Judy. They were so cute together. Phil had a major affect on my son, Josh, and his military career and his attending the Citadel. Judy, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. I love you and know this is going to be a very difficult time for you. Rest in Peace, Mr. Phil, Blue skies all the way!
Judy Povey
October 18, 2009
I'm very sad indeed to hear the news of Phil's passing, yet thankful for the many wonderful memories of Phil and his family in Clinton, Iowa in the 1970s, and the fun times at RAF Upper Heyford, England.
Paul Willis
October 17, 2009
RIP "lip, Many memories of times with Phil, from singing in choir to listening to his "stories" and just waiting for the time he would do a sonic boom over Camanche. His dream of becoming a Thunderbird and his complaining about Nixon. After volunteering for Nam "lip" was just sure he would catch the golden bee bee. Will continue to think of him often. "lips" friend, Atli!!!
October 17, 2009
Our sincerest sympathy is extended to
Phil's family. May the Lord comfort you during this most difficult of times. Cheryl and I have many fond memories of Phil during our high school
years at Camanche.
Gary & Cheryl Putman, Huntsville,AL
Bill & Beth Kramer
October 17, 2009
Bill and I are deeply saddened to learn of Phil's passing. What a bright, adventuresome and nice man he was. We extend our sincere sympathy to his family and his brothers. Please know that you will be in our prayers and thoughts.
Coco Carey
October 17, 2009
Philip lit up a room always and touched the heart of all he knew...Everyone has stories about Philip, he was just that kind of a guy,the best.
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