Obituary of Harry Mathias Strang

On Saturday, July 8, 2023, Harry Mathias Strang, aged 90, of London, Ontario, passed away peacefully while in the care of Parkwood Hospital. Only 7 weeks prior, he was holidaying in Italy.

Harry Strang was born on January 22, 1933, in Adenau, Germany. Fortunately, he was young enough to avoid active duty during WWII. While apprenticing to become an electrician at 17 years old, Harry boxed professionally, earning 12 German marks per fight. Just after the war, he worked for the French Army as a truck driver for a short stint. Harry immigrated to Canada on August 4, 1953, landing with $35 in his pocket and a mindset full of opportunities and dreams. He quickly secured employment and housing, settling nicely in his newly adopted country. Working hard, he gathered the funds to bring the love of his life, Trudy, to Canada. They married on August 28, 1954, and started their epic journey together. Harry went back to school in Canada and was hired as an electrical consultant for M.M. Dillon until his early retirement.

In the intervening years, Harry and Trudy traveled the globe, visiting exotic destinations and never shying away from adventure. They also embarked on several cruises with their children and grandchildren thereby instilling their love of travel.

Harry enjoyed running, skiing, sailing, tennis, and taking long hikes. At 83, he could be seen skiing the tree-lines on double diamond runs in Vail, Colorado, or on Red Mountain in B.C., where his daughter, Mary Luise, resides. He played on the tennis courts until he was 84 and was an avid tennis fan, watching every tournament.

Harry is survived by his wife, Trudy Strang; his children, Mary Luise Greene (Jim) and Gary Strang (Dawn); his grandchildren, Bryan (Ashley), Alexandra (Daniel), and Michael (Mikaley); his great-granddaughter, Regan; his sister-in-law Anneliese Brzezinski (Klaus); nephew Volker Brzezinski (Elke); as well as his nieces, Mary Ann, Karen, and Sonja Strang and their mother Elizabeth. Sadly, he was preceded in death by his brother, Gerhard Strang, in February 2023.

Harry was a role model for his family, demonstrating the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily life. Harry always lived life to the fullest and taught everyone around him how to make the best of every situation. He was an honest, ethical, hardworking, and proud immigrant who always showed kindness to others. He treated others as he expected to be treated and was an honorable gentleman. He will be deeply missed by his family. The world was a better place for having had Harry in it.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the comfort care team at Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit for their exceptional care during his short stay, especially nurse Barb and Daniela. They cared for Harry as if he were their father.  The family is also thankful for the care provided by University Hospital and Dr. McDougall.  Harry will be missed by many.

Respecting Harry’s wishes there will be no funeral or visitation.  Cremation has already taken place and a family celebration of life will follow.