Phillip Samuel “Big Phil” Strasser, 90, of Crisfield, MD, entered into eternal rest on the morning of Tuesday, November 15, 2016, at Alice B. Tawes Nursing Home in Crisfield, MD. Born February 27, 1926, in Coraopolis, PA, he was the son of the late Merle and Alice Strasser.
Big Phil received his education in the public schools of Allegheny County, PA. He enlisted in the United States Navy at the young age of 17. While on his tour of duty, he got the opportunity to travel to more than 20 countries around the world including India, Canada, and Germany, where he became fluent in German. Serving his country in World War II, he ran into his brother, Buddy, while on a ship overseas.
Upon his return from the war, Big Phil began working on the water. He later met the love of his life, Gertie Mae, and they married on June 16, 1962. PopPop, as he was affectionately known by his grandchildren, exhibited a strong love for his family. To provide for them, he reverted back to his passion and love for the water, working on barges, tugboats, pile drivers and steamboats up and down the Mississippi River, the three rivers in Pittsburgh, the Chesapeake Bay, and their surrounding tributaries. He even had a hand in building the original wharf in Crisfield. After retiring, Big Phil was employed by Evans Boat Construction & Repair in Crisfield, a job he maintained until he was 80 years old.
Big Phil enjoyed watching sports, but most of all he loved watching Westerns, The Three Stooges, and National Geographic television shows. He also loved baking bread, a skill he acquired during his service in the military as a cook, and enjoyed talking about the country of India with Dr. Vijay and the local pharmacist. He could often be found sitting at Tidy’s drinking a cup of coffee and exchanging stories of his worldly travel with friends and fisherman. One of his favorite sayings was “I’m still kicking.”
He leaves behind to cherish fond memories his devoted wife of 54 years, Evangelist Gertie Strasser; one daughter, Debbie Freeman (Ray); four sons, Anthony (Crystal), Sylvester, Kirk, and Reginald Jackson; one son-in-law, David Thompson; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren; two play daughters, Missionary Helen Murray and Debbie Miles; and a host of nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Marlon “Little Phil” Dix; two daughters, Leanore Jackson and Karen Thompson; and two brothers, David and Carroll “Buddy” Strasser.
A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Highway Holiness Church in Crisfield. With a viewing one hour prior. Interment Private.
One Response
Dearest Family, loved ones and, and Friends,
Deepest sympathies during this most difficult time. I will remember my Uncle Philip with love and joy! I will always remember this strong handsome man who had a great sense of humor and a little mischief in his smile. One of my fondest childhood memories was of when he and I would make bread together. I was so amazed that he could bake bread from scratch! He and my Dad “Buddy” had a great friendship and they would act like twins when they were together. (Smile) I know your hearts are hurting as mine is hurting also. So I would like to leave you with this thought. This is not good-bye Uncle Phil, It’s see you later! Blessings to all of you! May the good LORD wrap all of you in his everlasting arms, and a blanket of peace!
Love,
Stacy Strasser & Family