Lewis “Ed” Strite, age 81, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 11, 2022 at the Washington Center,
having received wonderful care by the staff that he greatly needed at this time of his life.
He was born on July 9, 1941 in Findley, OH to the late Lewis and Charlotte (Roush) Strite. Ed proudly served his country in the US Army from 1959-1962, which included active duty in Korea during the Vietnam War. He remained in the reserves until 1965. He was united in marriage to Mary Anne Kern on July 6, 1963, in Rising Sun, Ohio. They later moved to Pennsylvania where Ed served as a firefighter. In 1987, the Strites moved to New London, Wisconsin. Ed was a devoted husband and loved to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. He and Mary Anne celebrated 57 years together.
The couple had no children but generously extended love to all who needed a family. Ed was well-known for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and sought to live a Christ-like life. This was exhibited through his generosity of time and finances. They even provided a place to stay/live for many weary souls. Serving as a licensed electrician and later a computer repairman in the community, his integrity and work ethic was well established. He mentored many people including Austin Marhold. About 14 years ago, Ed and Mary Anne adopted the Marhold family and were adopted by them. They spent many holidays together. The Lord truly puts the lonely in families.
Ed faithfully maintained his membership at New Life Community Church in New London, where he loved leading singing hymns. He also traveled to Waupaca to participate in a Community Choir.
For over 20 years, Ed participated with His Way Events, an interdenominational community group. He assisted in bringing a Christian music venue to the Cheese and Sausage/Fall Family Festivals, arranged special inspirational speakers for local school assemblies and coordinated local congregations for the community’s benefit. Furthermore, he specifically held the positions of President, Chairman of the Board, and most recently, served as Vice President until his health prohibited continuing.
Volunteering and supporting veterans’ organizations was extremely important to Ed. He was one of the most patriotic people most of us knew. He was a life member of the American Legion, the VFW, and AMVETS. Ed’s American Legion service of 55 years ended with local Post 263. He held many offices throughout those years including Commander and Chaplain. He and his wife were very active in this organization, and their influence continues on to this day. Additionally, Ed acquired many positions in the local VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Post 2732, one of which was serving as Commander. He delighted to serve as MC of many Memorial Day and Veterans Day assemblies. Ed promoted involvement to other local veterans. He attended the local AMVETS Post 45 meetings as well as VFW and American Legion meetings regularly. He remained active as long as possible and even beyond.
Mr. Ed, as they fondly called him, will be dearly missed by Phil and Carol Marhold and their children, Austin, Justin, Jonathan, Melissa, Kira and Melody. “See you on the other side, Mr. Ed!”
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Mary.
Funeral services for Lewis “Ed” Strite will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London. Pastor Bill Bartel will be officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in the Floral Hill Cemetery, New London, where full military honors will be held. Celebration of Life meal to follow at the American Legion, 840 E North Water St, New London, WI 54961.