Thomas (Tom) Tom Michael Strava

Thomas Michael Strava (Tom) was born October 5, 1944 in Lafayette, Indiana to Jerry and Evelyn Strava, who preceded him in death. He passed away Saturday, November 12, 2011, surrounded by his family. He will be remembered as the best husband and father a family could have. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Abbie; daughter, Liza; son, Ryan and wife Andrea; brothers, Martin, James, and Robert; and many extended family members.

In his youth, Tom and his family moved to Arizona. After graduating high school, Tom moved to Texas to attend UNT. It was there that he met the love of his life, Abbie. After they were married, Tom enlisted in the US Navy where he served as a submarine electronics technician. During his seven years of naval service, Tom proudly served on the submarines USS John Adams (USBN 620) and the USS Seadragon (SSN 584). After leaving the Navy, Tom, Abbie, and their children returned to Texas, where Tom completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees, both at SMU.

Tom worked for many years as a telecommunications engineer, including 13 years with MCI. Tom also enjoyed working with his hands. He was a man who could build or fix anything: from building his garage (complete with a Jacuzzi tub in the bathroom!), to furniture and playhouses for his children. He loved to build and restore various vehicles, including a Kharmangia that Liza drove for many years, and various car restorations with Ryan. His special passion was for Triumph and BMW motorcycles. Tom loved to go on long motorcycling trips to BMW rallies all across the country (even up to Canada) with his friends, and especially loved his yearly trip to Terlingua, TX in the Big Bend National Park.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 17 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Funeral Services will be Friday, November 18 at 3:00 PM, all at Sparkman-Crane Funeral Home, 10501 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218.

Though flowers are greatly appreciated, if you would like to make a donation to honor Tom’s memory, please donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at www.LLS.org.

Arrangements entrusted to Sparkman/Crane Funeral Home

10501 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218

214-327-8291