Wade A. Stroup

On Saturday, August 24, Wade A. Stroup rejoined his beloved wife, Margie, peacefully passing away at home with his family in attendance. Born on September 30, 1923, in Barnes, PA, the oldest of 8 boys and 4 girls born to Daniel and Queen Stroup, his family moved to the village of Westline, PA so that his faher could work in the factory and nearby oil fields Wade started his education in a one room schoolhouse. An excellent student, he graduated with honors from Mt. Jewett High School in June, 1941. After graduation, he moved to Baltimore, MD, to work in the shipyards. As the war heated up, he joined the Merchant Marines, working on the famous Liberty Ships. He met Margaret Graham, the love of his life, through mutual friends, and they were married in Brooklyn, NY on September 16, 1944. He later graduated from the Maritime Academy in New London, CT with his officer's commission and engineering license. After the war, Wade and Margaret moved to Westline, PA and formed a logging company. Their family grew to include four children. The young family moved to Madison, OH and Wade started work in the powerhouse of IRC Fibers in Painesville, OH, eventually rising to Chief Engineer. For many years, he was an instructor at an area trade school, sat on the state certifying board for power engineers, and was president of the local power engineer's union. Wade was proud that all of his children graduated from college, eventually marrying and having children of their own. The family put their creative skills to use by becoming involved in wood crafts and craft shows for many years. As grandfather, Wade helped the kids with science projects, games of tag, fixing cars, and serving as resident counselor for their problems, just as he had done for his children. After retirement, Wade and Margaret loved to travel and fish, frequently taking the grandchildren with them. He joined the Senior Men's golf league at Erie Shores. Unfortunately, Margaret's health declined and Wade took on the role of both husband and caretaker. She passed away March 10, 2003. Wade joined the Knights of Columbus, working his way through 4th degree; serving in various offices, including Grand Knight for 3rd degree and Faithful Navigator for 4th degree. He was a tireless and selfless volunteer, willing to help anybody in need. He expanded his love of crafts by starting a painting and craft class for seniors at Cardinal Woods. He helped the Knights set up a weekly rosary at another senior center and started visitations to nursing homes in the area. He was also a dedicated volunteer at the Madison Food Center. Wade Stroup was a true "gentleman", husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by daughters: Cheryl Stroup, Carol (Paul) Hoover, and Patricia (Jeff) Gifford, and son, Wade Jr; grandchildren Joseph (Megan) Hoover, Stacey (Vince) Calo, and Eric (Kristin) Hoover, Megan and Aaron Stroup, Kelly (Matthew) Gifford, Bethany (Craig) Vergotz, and Christopher (Jessica) Edmonds; greatgrandchildren Kadence, Owen, and Peyton Vergotz, Ryan and Ethan Gifford, Isla and Giacomo Calo, and Brooklyn Hoover). The family will be receiving friends from 2 -4 & 6-8 PM, Wednesday, August 28, 2013, at Behm Funeral Home, 26 River Street, Madison, Ohio. Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, August 29, at 11:00 am at Immaculate Conception Church in Madison with Father Sean Donnelly officiating. Interment in North Madison Cemetery will follow the services. Contributions can be made in Mr. Stroup's name to the Madison Food Center, 1954 Hubbard Road,Madison OH 44057. .