Strachan, Donal Rittler

Donald Rittler Strachan of Willis passed away at his home on Friday, July 20, 2018. He was 95 years old. Don was born in New York on October 2nd, 1922, to Robert Strachan and Edna Holihan, and was the eldest of two children.

After spending his childhood years in New York and Vermont, he earned degrees from Carleton College and Perdue University. This time was interrupted by service in the Navy, where Don served as Assistant Navigator aboard the USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. (DD-850). Soon after beginning his career as a research engineer for DuPont, he settled in Virginia, which he would call home from then on.

Don is survived by his wife of nearly 48 years, Wanda Sharpe Strachan; his brother Robert Strachan, of Essex, Connecticut; three daughters, Susan Giles of Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, Nancy Normandeau of Waitsfield, Vermont, and Jennifer Strachan of Park City, Utah; three sons, Rittler Strachan of New Braunfels, Texas, Chris Strachan of Galax, and Steven Strachan of Martinsville. Don had twelve grandchildren and step-grandchildren (one predeceased), and two great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are welcome to call or visit the home to express their condolences. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Floyd County Volunteer Rescue Squad, in memorial of Don.

Online condolences may be made at http://www.gardnerfuneralhomefloyd.com. Arrangements are by Gardner Funeral Home in Floyd.