Sorry about mr. strunk great man and motivater the time I knew him as a student at b.g

Mr. Strunk has by far made a significant mark in my life. I carried his teachings of poetry and literature throughout my adult life. After leaving high school, I finally understood how amazing he was as a teacher, because he was also a mentor and cared for each student. I am grateful to have had such a dedicated teacher.

My memories of Frank Strunk go back to 1965-66 when he was the baseball coach at Detroit Cathedral. He became a good friend and we used to play chess after practice. He would then drive me home in his beat-up Morris Minor and we would have wonderful philosophical discussions. Even after 45 years, I never forgot his wit and wisdom.

Mr. Strunk gave a damn. I can't get any clearer than that. He is one of the most influential teachers I have ever had. As i write this i can't help but try to incorporate enough to earn the sought after triple plusies that many of his students desired. I write for pleasure because he showed me the joy and theraputic qualities in it. He loved what he taught and it shows in the number of lives he touched. Your husband,father,and grandfather will forever remain a part of me and the rest of the lives he touched. Thank you for sharing him with us. We are all so blessed for having such a man in our lives.

What an amazing and wonderful man Mr. Strunk was! I am honored to have had such a thoughtful and intelligent man for an instructor, and was clearly my favorite teacher through high school and college. My prayers go out to your family, and I know he will be improving THE UPSTAIRS just by being there! Thank you to his family for sharing him! BGHS class of 1976

"As I went down in the river to pray- Studying about that good ol' way- And who shall wear the starry crown? Good Lord show me the way!" One Easter Sunday, Frank put the song "As I Went Down to the River to Pray" on repeat as we drove to mass. I will always think of him when I hear it or the mention of the movie "Oh, Brother Where Art Thou." There are reminders, good reminders of Frank everywhere. Cameron Francis Strunk was named for his grandpa Frank, despite Franks protests. Apparently he never liked the sound of "Frank Strunk," it was too harsh. But Francis it is and every time Cameron gets in trouble there it is. Many in the Strunk family are big into sports, all kinds of sports. My children play baseball and hockey and whenever Christopher or Cameron would do something spectacular, Grandpa would be the first one called after the game because you can always brag to grandparents without any guilt or shame. Frank especially liked to hear about how things went and we knew he was proud of us. He was a wonderful listener. Whenever I had a "good story" I would call Frank and he would be ever ready to listen. We would discuss the event that occurred, repeat the funny parts and ponder anything we might have missed. He would always thank me for sharing and tell me to call back later, because Cathy would surely want to hear it as well. Until we meet again, I will miss all the ways Frank made our lives better: he was kind, he was loving, he was appreciative and he was funny. I am ever grateful to be a part of this family.

I really enjoyed visiting with Frank at my mother's 100th birthday party. It was very kind of him to come. He was a good man.

When I was seven, my mother took me to the first ever Hootenany in the brand new activities building of St. Brigid. I can still hear Mr. Strunk playing and singing, "It takes a worried man To sing a worried song. (3Xs) I'm worried now... BUT I WON'T BE WORRIED LONG!" Thank you for the music, sir.

For me, as for so many other people, he was and will always be Mr. Strunk. More than a name, that was a status, a title, a unique identifier. I was one of his students during his first year at St. Brigid's; I haven't seen him since leaving grade school, but he's always been part of who I am. Beyond the things that make us smile--the tossed erasers, the readings from MAD magazine--were the things that made us think. "Write a 1,500-word composition on 'The Dime." "Write a poem with the subject, 'The Last Voyage of the Albatross.'" "Listen to this radio broadcast; they're using the human voice as an instrument." I believe he wanted us to see things differently, to get outside of the plodding confines of "Voyages in English." We did. We did because he brought in unexpected light, opened windows and doors, and prodded us to be better people than we imagined ourselves to be. I am so sorry for the loss that his family and friends have felt. I hope the memories you share, and the admiration that so many people had for him, sustain you and remain with you.

I remember Mr. Stunk telling the class that he knew every definition in the dictionary and to challenge him with words just before class was out. Sure enough, Strunk answered everyones question correctly. After class I asked Mr. Strunk, "Why arent you a college professor?" and he responded, "For both of our sakes, Its better that you have me now than in college." To the entire Strunk family, please accept our familys deepest condolences. Mr. Strunk taught The Mohammed Family from 1992-2005. I remember hearing stories about how Mr. Strunk broke desks and punched holes in closet doors from my older siblings, because he was so serious about literature. And of course because students were talking while he was reading during a lesson. I was apart of the last graduating class from Bishop Gallagher (Trinity Catholic) in 2005 and Im proud to say that "Strunk" was the best English teacher I ever had!

When I learned today about Mr. Strunk my heart hit the floor, mainly because I don't feel I thanked him enough for all his encouragement. He told me I was a "good writer" at a time when I thought I wasn't good at anything, but of course he also told me my grammar and punctuation was horrible:). Mr. Strunk treated me different after I wrote those short stories he made me sit in front of the class and he would always call on me for weekly definitions, basically he kept me on my toes and for that I'll always be grateful. The Mohammed Family would like to send prayers and strong condolences to Mr. Strunks family & friends. Mr. Strunk had a heavy Influence on my siblings and I as we all attained Bishop Gallagher up until the doors closed.Thanks to him I was part of the class of 1999, Mr. Strunk was not only a great teacher but a great man. Whats amazing is that I didn't realize how much he taught me until much later, it's almost like his lessons had a time release on them. In a word Mr. strunk you were awesome! and I just want to Thank you for everything.

Sending strength and prayers to you Cathy and your family..I do know what you are going through and my heart wishes your heart a steady healing! Although I did not have Mr. Strunk for any classes, he did touch my life in a very special way. Several Junior Ladies in the class of 1979 needed a coach for their powder-puff football team and you know who stepped up for us ~ as his time with us was taken from you and his children ~ WE Thank You! We were probably the worst bunch of players he had ever seen, but he never gave up on us! I am proud to say that he coached us to the first Junior class that ever Scored in a game and the first Junior class that ever beat the Seniors! It was not a game that was attended by many, we did not get any ribbons or recognition, there was a broken nose, leg and finger (finger was mine), but it is the BEST memory I have in the 4 years at BG! Mr. Strunk took these ladies under his wing (his own time & no extra money) and gave them courage, hope and determination! Thank you Mr. Strunk ~ we love you!

Mr. Strunk was one of the first teachers that challenged me to work harder, think deeper and do more than just show up for class. It is because of him that I love reading to this day. Thank you to his family for allowing him to be who he was--a truly great teacher.

Mr. Strunk was my first customer when I came to work at a bank in Grosse Pointe in 2000. His friendly demeanor was a perfect welcome to this exceptional community, where I have remained ever since. I will always remember this dignified and gracious man, and I am so sorry for your loss.

My condolences to Cathy and family for this great man. I could write a book on the memories we shared not only as a former player but mostly when we coached the BG varsity together in 89-92. The intelligence, the passion for teaching and the incredible wit ever-present! (see Mark Carter's post)! I learned so much from him and remain eternally grateful for Frank's blunt, honest and often hilarious assessments of players, situations, and me in particular. Even as an adult far removed my BG years he was still teaching and shaping my development. His never-ending energy to mentor was infectious and influenced me greatly as a coach and man. Rest in peace and God bless you. Dave

Mr Strunk was the first teacher in high school to ratchet up the learning stakes. He challenged us to think deeply and independently and cut us no slack... challenges that stick with us through life. Thank you for your dedication to us and to all those that preceded and followed us. My sympathies to his family and friends. Know that Mr Strunk made the world a better place through his contributions. Regards Jerry de Gryse BG Class of 70

Cathy and family, My family also grieve at the passing of Frank, and all of you are in our prayers. I could write a book of thanks for all the memories, and mentoring that Frank gave me, since I met him in 8th grade during 1968 at St. Matthews, then the 4 years at Bishop Gallagher, and the several years thereafter. I truly miss him, as I am sure you do too. My best wishe and prayers to you all. Tom

Frank was such a great influence on our whole family after we moved to Detroit, as a young man he made time for my mom and her seven little girls, how many 20 somethings would do this? Since my mother didnt drive he would often give her and many of us a lift when needed; he helped us with our school work and most of all he got us out on fun field trips. I remember one time when Frank was driving me somewhere, it was just him and me in the car. . I must have been about 9 or 10 years old; it was a perfect summer day, the windows were rolled down and we were driving down a street that was canopied in beautiful American Elms (remember those?). The wind was rustling through the trees and all was right with the world. That feeling came over me where I felt like I was one with the universe; I guess some would call it " in the zone". I tried to describe to Frank what I was feeling, and he knew what I was talking about. I said to him how much I loved when this happened and I wanted to know if it happened more often as you get older. He said, actually no, it happens much less often. He was right. When I want to try and remember that feeling though I think of this time with Frank. Maybe the reason I had this experience with Frank is because he was one of those rare people that was completely present where ever he was or whoever he was with; he was such a good listener and observer. Frank, I have the feeling you are looking down on your beautiful family from that eternal place.

Taught and coached with Frank at Detroit Cathedral H.S. He was a wonderful friend.

Cathy and family, we write this with much love and sorrow; thankful that this wonderful man was part of our family. We have been blessed with a really great family and extended family members. Frank has left us but his spirit lives on. Time heals but the void will remain, as it should. The good times and stories will live on. I remember Frank as such a good man: always thoughtful, kind, helping others, strong, intellectual, good looking, a manly man, and handsome when dressed up. Many judge success by the money one makes, but Frank had true success in what really matters, a life well lived. One of many stories I remember, which still makes me laugh, shows Frank's sensitive nature. We had his car for a few days and about a week after returning it he was telling me that the car started stinking and was just getting worse. He couldn't find anything in the car to account for it and left the windows open but it only got worse. So he opened the trunk and found a bag of garbage. "Who and why would someone put garbage in my car?", I said I didn't know. He then said he went through the garbage for clues but couldn't find any, just numerous Dunkin Donut coffee cups. Sorry Frank, that was our garbage. Terry was taking it out and forgot to remove it. Sorry, that was us. No more garbage for you our friend. You will be missed by many.

God Bless you and your family as they go through these tough times. My family's prayers are with them. Rest in peace Mr. Strunk.

A friend recently told me of Mr. Strunk's passing & I felt I must convey my sympathies. Mr. Strunk was my first lay teacher for both 6th & 8th grades at St. Brigids in Detroit. He made a lasting impression on me--the way he called all the girls Miss; brought his uke to class; tossed clicking, noisey pens out open windows & sailed erasers which I mistakenly took to the forehead once when I looked up from a test. :( To this very day I still know all the words to the University of Minnesota fight song! I wish I had known Frank coached so many years at Bishop Gallagher as my kids went to Our Lady of the Lakes in Waterford. We always had a great rivalry. Sending prayers & good wishes to Mr. Strunk's family & friends at this difficult time. Sincerely, Susan (Frushour) Kraly Davisburg, MI 48350

My prayers are with you family. He will be deeply missed.

Frank, Thanks to you I know of these, thanks to you, and will never forget them...thanks to you. "When you are sorrowful look into your heart and you shall see that you are weeping for that which has been your delight" "Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak Whispers the oer-fraught heart and bids it break" "How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."  Thanks to you Frank, thanks to you....... thanks to you "Farewell! God knows when we shall meet again. "

I had the privilege of having Mr. Strunk as a teacher (Contemporary Novel) at Bishop Gallagher (1970)as did my son,Jared 20+ years later. He was always an inspiration to those of us who wanted to become teachers. My deepest sympathy to his wife, children and other family members.

Dear Frank, I always believed that one sign of a life well-lived is how many other lives you have touched. My hope was that five or six might do - but, look at you! I am so proud to be your sister! I love you and miss you. Ellen

Dear Cathy, Timothy, Bethany, Therese, David, If only there was/were(?) [Frank, help me] a way to ease the ache of your loss. Truly, our entire family's grief for the void we are now experiencing in Frank's wake. May we garner comfort in remembering that the golden threads of love & family are never severed and no spirit is ever truly gone from us. Indeed, Frank was certainly an indelible family member long before any of us actually had the pleasure of knowing him personally-Grandma being the first to welcome him into our family circle. After Mom left us, I found a diary of Grandma's in which she jotted little notes-everything from purchases to daily encounters. And, lo and behold, Frank was mentioned many times. Ah, the mysteries and vagaries of those golden threads, unbreakable and forged for eternity. Frank was a prominent influence in all our lives from the day we arrived in Detroit and even before. And, as all the thoughts and tributes so kindly posted attest-Frank affected, impacted and touched so countless many during his sojourn. What a legacy he leaves for all of us that will miss him so. May we draw some comfort in that thought. Love to all of you, Mary

Took my breath away to learn of Mr. Strunk's passing...my all time favorite teacher and I will never forget how honored I felt when he told me to call him Frank...he freely offered his friendship and knowledge..his wit was so sharp and I can still hear him say "That's the spirit". He was supportive even after I graduated and it was such a boost to stop by his classroom years later to visit and he always remembered me...He was such a great teacher that my 1st yr composition teacher at WSU apologized to me at the end of the term because the composition I wrote the first day of class was so much better than the one she required at the end..she told me to forget anything she said and thank my high school teacher...so thank you Frank Strunk..for allowing me to see the person behind the teacher and introducing me to the gift of literature... you will be missed!

Mr. Strunk was my sixth grade teacher and coach at St. Brigids. I believe it was his first teaching job. He was 24, I didn't think anyone could get that old except my parents. His influence in my life since then has been constant and empathic. I remember that I would do practically anything to get him to fling that eraser at me (imagine doing that in this day and age). But, I loved his attention that much. I was the puniest kid on the football team but one time after practice I stopped by his desk in the old Activities Building where our locker room was. He told me something I never forgot when I expressed my frustration about not being bigger and physically stronger. He said " Durkin its not how big your body is, its how big your heart is...and while you cant do much about how big your body is going to be, you can always decide how big your heart will be" After more than sixty years on this mortal coil (hed like that term I think) I have discovered that the greatest thing you can have in this world is to have someone who believes in you more than you believe in yourself. Mr. Strunk was that person to me and it made all the difference. Im deeply sorry I never got to tell him that. My condolences to his family and friends on your loss.

My condolences to the Strunk family,a fantastic teacher who taught us as much about life as the subject he was teaching. I will NEVER forget the day he took me outside the the classroom for 15 minutes or so and gave me a "life lesson". Forty years later that conversation is still in my head...a maker of men, thats what he was...RIP Mr Strunk. Sam Parisi "70"

Mr. Strunk was a gentleman, a teacher, a coach, and a mentor to me. His sense of humor was keen and dry. I played basketball for Frank my senior year at Bishop Gallagher. He was very dedicated and patient with me, trying to make up for the 3 years I had taken off from organized basketball. He spent countless hours with me after practice trying to develop his beloved shot 'the hook shot'. My favorite story of Frank happened during mid-season. We had a half day of school that particular day. In those days you only had to be 18 years old to drink alcohol. After school and before practice we went over to another teammate, Michael Schervish' house to shoot pool. Needless to say I consumeded a few beers. Later that day I was having a fairly aggressive practice. About mid way through practice Frank halted the scrimmage and walked into the key and asked "who's been drinking?". No one responded so he asked again 'who's been drinking?. Still no response. He looked directly at me and said "Carter, if it's you that's been drinking, then drink before our game on Friday night". That was Frank. He will be dearly missed.

My condolences on your loss. I am a 1978 graduate of Bishop Gallagher. I started there after a move in the middle of my Junior year. The English classes I had with Mr. Strunk I have never forgotten. I learned about my weaknesses and my strengths, how to study and how to think about literature and life. Thank you Mr. Strunk for your wit and knowledge that helped your students through the crazy time of high school.

My deepest sympathy for your loss. It was my privilege to have taught with Frank, and to have called him my friend. He was a man of great heart and mind, who loved his family, his students and the literature he knew so well. Frank had a fabulous dry wit, and the kindest heart, an exceptional human being. "He was a man, take him for all in all I shall not look upon his like again."

My condolences to us all, who loved Frank Strunk. The loss to his family is certainly great. An outstanding teacher and coach and friend was he. In his last years he encourage me to read James Dickey and Bartlesby the Scrivner and was so happy that I did so. Dickey's The Last Wolverine says, "Lord, let me die, but not die out." Thank you Coach. Many of us will never forget you. Thanks to Cathy and Frank's children for the care and dignity you gave this great man.

Mr. Strunk was the finest teacher I ever had at any level of my education. He had the ability to sense what each of his students were capable of, and he pushed you to make sure you made the best use of your talents. I still have the term papers from his class that I will pull out from time to time to read his sage comments. His English literature class was far more stimulating than any course I ever had at college. Mr. Strunk taught his students one of the most important things that a teacher can;how to read a book. Not just how to take the words literally, but how to read beyond the lines to discern and feel what that author was trying to get across. His stories about going to Mississippi to work on advancing the cause of civil rights taught his students more about Catholic social teaching than we ever learned in religion class. An outstanding teacher, and an even better man who touched the lives of so many. What a great legacy Mr. Strunk leaves both for his family and for those of us fortunate enough to have benfited from his guidance as our teacher or our coach. Dr. Robert E. Lee BG Class of 1972

sad to hear about Mr. Strunk. I remember our class reading Truman Capote's A Christmas Memory and that story has stayed with me all these years ... and I continued by passing it on to my eighth grade students ...

UNCLE FRANK THE GO TO GUY.Loved it when Frank would GO TO California.Loved it when I would climb in the back of the Corvette [my sisters always got the front seat ] and GO TO Mt. Diablo for the anual tarantula migration.Frank loved those things. Loved going to the golf course [ in the front seat this time NO GIRLS] to caddy for his round.I remember running around the greens with the flag stick chanting the old Ajax phrase 'stronger than dirt' when the ball dropped in the cup. Later on it morphed to 'older than dirt' never thought of Frank as old. Loved the way Frank wound us up all day only to let us down easy when it was time to GO TO bed! That meant it was it was the best part of the day.UNCLE FRANKIE TIME! The greatest show on earth featuring amazing song's from guy with unbelievable 'natural' talent followed by a story that always left smiling and begging for more.Those times are gone but still very near to me.Frank you get to GO TO a place and bring a smile to there face. Love to all ! Joe

Cathy, Marilyn and I extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Although I never had the privilege of meeting Frank, I read all the memorial tributes and it is abundantly clear that he was indeed a special husband, father, teacher, coach, gentleman and friend. Cherish the memories that are forever yours. Enternal rest Frank and God Bless.

It is really incredible to read all these beautiful tributes to Frank. How many lives he touched in his devotion to his profession and family, his passions. He will be terribly missed and never forgotten. I remember giant sized Christmas in our Detroit childhoods, whose tops had to be loped before they could ever be dragged and fit inside. Rides out to the cousins farm, especially the day after the riots in Detroit. I will never forget, thank you. A tough and tender person who was not only my friend since I was about 8 years old, but a loving family member who was not only my sister's husband, but also my grandmother and my mother's friend, the father to my wonderful nieces and nephews and blessed be those two fine young grandsons. And so so so smart. Always such a pleasure to share a joke, a book, an observation with. And always so easy to please with the same consideration. In these last difficult years, Frank proved to have the courage and fight that speak of his passion for life. All my love, Char

My condolences to the family of Frank Strunk. I had the good fortune to work with Frank at Bishop Gallagher from 1967 to 1973. He was a wonderful teacher and very dedicated to teaching his students. Frank, also, was a fine basketball and football coach. His high intellect made an impact on me and many others. May God Bless Frank and his loving family.

My deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Strunk Family. "Coach" had an tremendous influence on me during my teen years and I still reflect back to a lot of great memories during my time with him in class, on the golf course and especially on the basketball court. May you rest in peace. God Bless. Dave

Cathy and family ... your husband and dad touched so many lives. Even though it was many years ago, the man who shaped up some unruly 6th graders and then again as 8th graders at St. Brigid's had an impact on all of us. I know that my brothers had the utmost respect for him - as a teacher and as a coach.

Dear Betty and family, Am so sorry for your loss.May the Lord give you and your family strength at this difficult time. RIP Mr Frank.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Strunk Family. Mr Strunk has had such a positive effect on all of us. Many of us still sit back and reflect on the moments we had in his class. He will be missed.

Cathy, I am so sorry for your loss and will keep you and your family in my prayers. Your husband sounds like a remarkable man who touched a great many lives in positive ways. I'm sure he will be deeply missed.

So sorry to hear of Mr. Strunk passing away. Although I never had Mr. Strunk in class at BG I did have the good fortune of playing on his Frosh basketball team(67-68)and later in football. He was a patient coach and at times injected some of his humor into practices. I knew Mr. Strunk had an incredible intellect and coupled with his wry, dry, sense of humor, the ability to cut anyone to shreds verbally before they knew he was even doing it! Imagine my dismay in 1981 when I was told Frank would be sitting in on my English class at DLS and evaluating my teaching in a cooperative process with BG!! The most brilliant literary person in Catholic Schools (Frank) evaluating me, a comparative literary imposter. He had to sense my anxiety and was gracious and helpful in his comments. Thank you, Frank, for cutting this PE Major, who was way out of your league, some slack! My condolences to his family, he had an impact on many people!

I had Mr. Strunk for an English class the morning after John Lennon's death. Mr. Strunk was very shaken, upset, and reflective that December morning. He had the class write an impromptu essay on John Lennon or ANYTHING while he jotted down his own thoughts. I learned about John Lennon and what impromptu meant that day. I had Mr. Strunk for a few english/writing classes and that is my most vivid memory. I think we "got along" because of our similar senses of humor. RIP Mr. Strunk and God Bless his family.

My deepest and heartfelt condolences to Bethany, Winnie, Cathy and the rest of the Strunk family for the loss of beloved Frank. He was a great and admirable man who will always be remembered by those who knew him. We shall all miss Him. May God Bless him and his loving family. Steve Moshi Dec. 9, 2011 Kilimanjaro Tanzania.

Dear Cathy and Family, What wonderful tributes these are. How fortunate it would have been to have Frank as a teacher or a coach. Even more fortunate for me to be his niece. Each and every visit, although few and far between, brought new memories, great stories and plenty of laughs. What a special man he was. And what an amazing family he has left with us to remember him.

My condolences to the Strunk family. I never had Mr. Strunk as a teacher but had the pleasure of being coached by him. Although its been more then 20 yrs since i last saw him. I can still hear is dry whitty one liners on the football field. Truly one of the greats.

My heart goes out to Frank's family. Not long into my first year as a teacher (1973), I realized that Frank was the type of teacher I wanted to be. Over my years at BG, Frank was my mentor, my colleague, and, thankfully, my friend. His intellect, humor, and humanity were certainly the tools of a master, but, more importantly, they were the expression of a beautiful soul and a beautiful man. "Flights of angels..." Frank!

To the family, please take comfort in knowing that you have shared a legend with us students and athletes. 'Mr. Strunk' truly lived in and fulfilled his purpose in life. The influence and stamp that he left on us will live on as we pass it on to generations to come. He was a teacher who cared about and taught us how to analyze and 'use our heads' and rip papers in half with a red pen. A legend because he was effective! Praying for your strength in the days ahead.

Condolences to the entire Strunk family. Frank meant a lot to us in our youth. He inspired us to read, demanded perfection on the playing field, but commanded a presence we all admired.

My condolences go out to the entire Strunk family. Mr. Strunk was a great teacher; he made me want to work hard for him. He will be missed, but always remembered. Tony Miller - BG 1990

Thoughts and prayers are with the Strunk family.. Coach(Frank) was truly one of the Greats..A teacher who MADE an impact in many of our lives and a differance on and off the field..Thank you for your help making me a better person..R.I.P.

Praying for the families continued strength during this time. Thank you for allowing Mr. Strunk to touch not only my life; but also the lives of some many BG students.

When I was in high school I had no idea the impact your teaching would have on my life. The strong writing foundation and ability to analyze literature you instilled assisted me in both my educational and career endeavors. This coupled with your ability to make us laugh is what makes you so memorable. May your family find peace during this time and comfort knowing you impacted the lives of so many. See you in high school heaven!

The BEST English teacher! Thanks for opening my mind and heart to all the great literature Mr. Strunk. Sincerest condolences to the Strunk family.

So sorry to hear about Mr. Strunks passing. Prayers and thoughts to you and your family. He was a great guy and teacher.

So sorry for your loss. He was such a wonderful teacher and human being. Bits of his lectures still rattle around in my brain. His loss will be felt by more people than you can know. Hugs to your entire family. Ellen

Thoughts and prayers to the Strunk family. May you find comfort in the memories you have and cherish those. Nathan, Stacey & Madison

Mr. Strunk was my favorite teacher EVER...and that includes college. He treated the students with respect and we respected him. He was a hero and changed many lives including mine. I am so sorry for your loss (the family) but grateful that you have SO many heartfelt memories with an amazing man. Hugs and love and prayers to all of you.

Condolences to the entire Strunk family. Mr. Strunk made an impact on not only myself but so many BG students. He was a strong, wise and very intelligent man, to say a few. Praying you can find peace and stay strong during this difficult time. Prayers out to you all.

My thoughts and prayers are with your family today and always.

We were sorry to hear of Frank's death and know what a loss that must be to Cathy and the entire family. Be assured of our thoughts and prayers. My many talks with Frank about the Catholic church and its many problems helped me through the years. John (Norma) Kinkel

Dear family, I have fond memories of Frank as a repected and loved BG teacher and, later, as a neighbor. I would often run into him on Mack Avenue. I would be running and he would be walking and we would always take time to talk. He was so proud of his chldren and I could keep track of those three that I knew through him. He was a very special person. Richard Dean

My condolences to Mr. Strunk's family. He was a tremedous teacher, a smart guy and a jock who liked both Percy Bysshe Shelley and Denny McLain. He once threatened to "deviate my septum" if I didnt't stop goofing around, but I took that not as a threat but as Mr. Strunk's dry sense of humor. I worked with him during the summer of 1969 at Santora's Landscaping, and I recall Mr. Strunk keeping busy on breaks and lunch by reading a book on linguistics that looked like an algebra text. I also remember his love for British literature, including Gray's "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard:" "The curfew tolls the knell of parting day, The lowing herd winds slowly o'er the lea, The ploughman homeward plods his weary way, And leaves the world to darkness and to me." RIP.

My condolences to Cathy, children and entire family. As a member of the BG faculty and coaching staff, I worked with Frank 20years. Students always let you know who the better teachers are on the faculty. He was one of the greats. We spent many hours talking Basketball. He was a fine coach. I'm sure Frank will find someone to shootsome hoops with on the Great Court upstairs. A fine fine man was he.

Aunt Cathy, Tim, Bethy, Therese and David, I'm so sorry for your loss and pray you find strength as you move through this difficult time. I have so many wonderful memories of Uncle Frank that I will always cherish. He was so kind, humble and incredibly funny. I'll never forget doing calisthenics at "Uncle Frankie Time", searching for tarantulas on Mt. Diablo and turtles in Minnesota. I smile when I think of the time spent listening to his songs, limericks and stories. I'm quite sure Heaven's inhabitants are smiling more now too. I feel very fortunate to have had such a wonderful person in my life and it's beautiful to see how he touched so many. Love to you all. Mary

My condolences to the friends and family of Mr. Strunk. He was one of my favorite teachers at BG - from his love of great literature to his quoting of Monty Python! And like many others mentioned, I would often run into him after graduation and was always touched that he remembered me and took the time to stop and chat and was genuinely interested in what I was doing. He was always very encouraging in class and fostered my love of reading and writing. RIP, Mr. Strunk.

My prayers go out to the Strunk Family. I coached with and shared many highs and lowes with Frank during my twenty plus years at Bishop Gallagher. His humor and intelligence made him a cut above the average coach and educator. The last time I was with Frank was an invitation to go with him to a baseball banquet at Oakland University where his son was playing. He mentioned how he was working with students who were in need of job experiences and needed direction in their lives. Frank, even when he left education, cared about the directions that our youth would take. Im sure Frank is still doing something up THERE to make someone a better person. God Bless.

Great teacher. Great coach. Cool guy. The whole package. As good as any college professor I had. Let's reread Milton's "Paradise Lost" and Faulkner's "The Bear and shoot a few hops in his memory.

To the Strunk Family. They say its not the Date of Birth or the Date of Death that matters in life. Its the DASH between the two. There is a poem called THE DASH (can be found on youtube.com) If you read it you will know Frank had a great DASH and because of his influence my DASH will be better then it probably would have been with out him. The Nickname "OLDMAN" you gave me has stuck over the years. Classmates still call me that. And I think of you everytime with a smile and a warm heart. R.I.P. Frank and may your family take comfort in your being with the Lord.

Tim- There are blessedly few times in our lives that shake us to our very foundation, but I'm certain yours is solid. Your father touched a lot of people and left them with a lot of wonderful memories, but don't forget that parents do their greatest work through their children. Your foundation is strong because your parents built it with their own hearts and hands. So very sorry for your loss.

Kathy, may God Bless You and Your Family...A Husband, A Father, A Brother may it be is a Great Loss! My Condolences! Erma

God Rest Your Soul Mr. Strunk. I attended Bishop Gallagher when you taught there. I always remember the love and respect all of the "boys" had for you. You taught them well! God Bless Your Family During this difficult time.

Frank was always a smart and truly professional person, whether it be in the classroom; "on breaks"; or on the basketball court. He seemed to patiently instruct his students (or even casual observers), in a very classy and creative manner. Frank related to all by using his unique sense of humor. Although I only worked with Frank for three years at Gallagher, he was a friend whose guidance, observations, and comments were always of high value. You were a good man, and I am lucky to have known you. May God Bless You! Enjoy Heaven...as your game is now complete...You Won! Congratulations!!!

Coach was like a friend to me... He inspired, challenged, and motivated me to look in the mirror! I remember Coach Strunk reading MacBeth! That to me was a true glimpse at a part of Coach's love... He loved reading! Coach was and is a TRUE blessing. I posted on Beth's wall earlier and I'm better now knowing that Coach did fight the good fight. We are all celebrating just knowing this great friend and man... Love you Coach!

So sorry to hear of Mr. Strunk's passing. He was a great teacher, and I have many fond memories of his Honors English class ... especially the time that he walked into our class about a half hour late. He showed up the next day with a note from his "mommy" pinned to the front of his sweater, to remind him what time to come teach our class! Still makes me smile thirty years later.

Strunk family, On behalf of the Booth family I would like to send my families deepest condolences. Mr. Strunk was a great man and one of my favorite teachers. I would meet Dave and Mr.Strunk at the school gymnasium after hours. He would open up the gym and sit in his classroom while Dave, Butch Smith, & I worked on our games. He supported every student he ever met & he will be missed. The Alumni of Bishop Gallagher High are better because of him. God Bless!!!

Mr. Strunk was one of my all-time favorite teachers. I majored in English in college because of him, and he taught me to understand and appreciate difficults writers such as Hawthorne, Chaucer and Shakespeare. He also taught me the fine skills of composition, proof-reading and extending my vocabulary. Foons, anyone? RIP Mr. Strunk. You made a difference in my life. Di (Levinthal) Nader BGHS '78

Frank was an amazing man! What an influence he had on me in my High School years. Coach, mentor, teacher. He walked with a bounce to his step and a chip on his shoulder. An intellect, a friend. Feared by some, respected by all! Good Bye Coach

Just heard about the passing of Frank Strunk, beloved Bishop Gallagher English teacher and football coach (varsity and powder puff). He was one of those rare teachers who truly inspired a group of pimply adolescents worried about being cool to try to think about the bigger picture and how literature could help us understand it. I am another of his students who went on to become an English major and then a writer in large part due to his influence.

Cathy and Family, sorry to hear about Frank. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you. Angie Sylvester

Cathy, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. You have my deepest sympathies.

Ill always remember how Mr. Strunk was one of those teachers that found a way for everyone to understand shakespear, and he DID. I've never met a teacher that was so devoted to helping out every student succeed. I'm truely thankful for the four years that I was able to experience his knowledge. He will be truely missed.

Cathy, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I will keep you all in my prayers.

Mr. Strunk was an amazing teacher, coach and role model.I will never forget his passion for life. He inspired me to become a teacher and for that I always be grateful to him. God bless him and his family.

The world would be a better place if their were more people like Frank. Our sympathy goes out to you Therese and your family.

Our deepest condolences to the Strunk Family. Mr. Strunk was a great teacher and even better man. He showed me how to be positive influence in the classroom and out. We lost a good one.

Condolences to you and your family for your loss, Cathy. My prayers are with you for strength and peace.

Condolences to you and your family, Cathy. My prayers are with you for strength and peace at this time of loss.

Sending my sincerest condolences to the family for your loss. Mr. Strunk was a very well respected teacher and coach at BG and will be greatly missed. I pray strength and comfort for your family during this time.

You were such a positive influence in my life and I will forever be greatful for your teaching and wisdom. May we do our part to provide a beacon to future generations, as you have done for us The Thomas' (David, Marinda, Izzy, Dylan and Leia)

Rest in Peace Coach Strunk thanks for being a part of my life. Elroy

I once began a letter to Frank with a quotation I thought accurately described our friendship. I can't remember who said it but I will never forget what it said. " Teachers are truly immortal, they live forever in the lives of their students." He has changed my life in so many ways. I would not be the person I am today of it weren't for him. He was my English teacher from 99 to 2002 and a dear friend ever since. I will surely miss him and I will spend the rest of my life trying to emulate his kindness and generosity. I will forever miss you Frank. Thank you so much for everything you have done for me.

OBITUARY

Frank W. Strunk

31 July, 1936 – 4 December, 2011

A.H. Peters Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services