Herbert Dean Strain

Herb was born on July 10th 1930 in the small farming community of Big Bend in south eastern Colorado near Lamar. His parents were Opal and Raymond Strain. His father, who worked for the rural electric company in the area was killed in a work related accident when Herb was only seven years old. After becoming unexpectedly widowed, Opal moved her two young sons, Herb and Jack to Denver and was hired by Gates Rubber Company where she worked until she retired. Opal never remarried and raised her sons in the Barnum Park area of west Denver. Herb’s younger brother Jack died at an early age leaving behind five children. Herb attended Denver’s South High School until joining the Navy in 1947. He met his lifelong partner of more than sixty-five years through a mutual friend in January of 1950. Herb and Joan corresponded through letters during his navy years until they were married in July of 1951. At the time of his discharge six months after the wedding, it was discovered that Herb had developed tuberculosis while overseas. Because of the treatment required, he was in various hospitals during their first year of marriage. Herb’s first long term occupation was with the Morris Chain Company, first as a machinist then as a draftsman. He later accepted a position with the City of Denver, starting as a draftsman then as a traffic engineer after earning an associate degree in engineering. He retired from the City in 1995. Herb and Joan raised two sons Raymond and David in southwest Denver. He was active with a strong faith at Trinity Lutheran Church. He was a great father, husband, and provider, always willing to help out whenever asked. If he had one hobby it was his interest in collecting miniature farm equipment and trains. He leaves behind his wife Joan, two sons and their families, two grandchildren, three great grandchildren and one on the way. May he rest in peace.

Visitation will be held 12-1pm Wednesday, June 1, 2016 with a graveside service to immediately follow visitation at Olinger Chapel Hill Mortuary and Cemetery. Memorial service will be held 2pm at Trinity Lutheran Church, 4225 W. Yale Ave, Denver, CO 80219.