Daniel G. Strawser, Sr.

Daniel George Strawser, Sr., of Newcastle, ME, passed away surrounded by his loving family on May 12, 2023.  Born at noon on August 7, 1943 in Robesonia, PA, he was just in time for lunch, as his mom used to say.  

Dan, as he was called, grew up in Berks County, PA, where he attended Conrad Weiser Schools until he graduated in 1961. He attended Elizabethtown College in PA. Dan began his 33-year career with Publix Shirt Company, based in New York City, starting in the pattern making department working his way up to Director of Quality Control.    

In 1968, Dan took an adult education class focusing on the folk art of the Pennsylvania Germans who immigrated to the Berks County area as early as the 1700’s.  He was enamored with the wood carvings of that era so began teaching himself to carve wooden figures using only a pocket knife, as did the early Pennsylvania German settlers in his area.  Thus, began his 50+ year career in folk carving.  Dan has been written up in many magazines and newspaper articles and you can find his carvings in several historical societies.  In 2016 Dan was honored by Conrad Weiser High School receiving their Distinguished Alumni Award. Carving was truly what kept him going, especially in his later years.  

Dan was predeceased by his parents, Guy W. and Margaret (Weidman) Strawser; as well as his brothers, Melvin and Robert Ruth; a sister, Phyllis Dissinger; and grandson, Benjamin Luke Strawser.  

Dan is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Donna Mikulak Strawser; son, Daniel Strawser, Jr, and wife Debra of Murfreesboro, TN; daughter, Dawn (Strawser) and husband Scotty Seiverling of Bethel, PA; stepson, Nathan P. Kennedy and wife Angel (Shouse)of Brentwood, TN; stepdaughter, Alison (Kennedy) and husband Jeffery Hanley of Newcastle, ME; 7 grandsons; one granddaughter; and 7 great-grandchildren.  Affectionately known to his family as Popi, his gentle and loving spirit will certainly be missed by all who knew him. Luckily, his wonderful carvings will be a loving tribute to all that he has meant to family and friends. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 26, 2023 from 4-7pm at the Cheverus Hall of St. Patrick’s Church, 380 Academy Hill Road, Newcastle, ME. A prayer, and oral tributes to Dan, will take place at 5:00pm. 

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME 04543.  Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: www.StrongHancock.com.

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