Obituary
Daniel G. Strawser Sr.(1943-2023)
By Donna Strawser - May 26, 2023
Daniel George Strawser Sr., of Newcastle, Maine, was born at noon on Aug. 7, 1943, in Robesonia, Pa., just in time for lunch, his mom used to say. Dan, as he was called, grew up in Berks County, where he attended Conrad Weiser Schools until he graduated in 1961. He attended Elizabethtown College. Dan began his 33-year career with Publix Shirt Company, based in New York City, starting in the pattern making department and working his way up to Director of Quality Control. In 1968, Dan took an adult education class focusing on the folk art of the Pennsylvania Germans, who immigrated to the Berks County area as early as the 1700s. He was enamored with the woodcarvings of that era, so he began teaching himself to carve wooden figures using only a pocketknife, as did the early Pennsylvania German settlers in his area. Thus began his 50-plus year career in folk carving. Dan has been written up in many magazines and newspaper articles, and you can find his carvings in several historical societies. In 2016, Dan was honored by Conrad Weiser High School, receiving their Distinguished Alumi Award. Carving was truly what kept him going, especially in his later years. Dan is predeceased by his parents, Guy W. and Margaret (Weidman) Strawser, as well as his brothers, Melvin and Robert Ruth; a sister, Phyllis Dissinger; and grandson Benjamin Luke Strawser. Dan is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Donna Mikulak Strawser; son Daniel Strawser Jr., husband of Debra of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; daughter Dawn (Strawser), wife of Scotty Seiverling of Bethel, Pa.; stepson Nathan P. Kennedy, husband of Angel (Shouse) of Brentwood, Tenn.; stepdaughter Alison (Kennedy), wife of Jeffery Hanley of Newcastle, Maine; seven grandsons; one granddaughter; and seven great-grandchildren. Affectionately known to his family as Popi, Dans gentle and loving spirit will certainly be missed by all who knew him. His wonderful carvings will be a loving tribute to all that he has meant to family and friends. A celebration of Dans life will be scheduled and announced at the convenience of his family.
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