In loving memory of Hal Ray Strange, who peacefully passed on to heaven on January 23rd, 2024. He was born in Greenfield, Indiana, on October 29th, 1949, to his parents Donald Paul Strange Sr. and Albertine (Tina) H. Strange née Campbell. Hal’s life was a journey marked by love, kindness, and countless cherished moments. Hal Ray Strange’s love extended deeply to his siblings: Lois Ann Jackson, Donald Paul Strange Jr., Terry Tom Strange, Joyce Lynn Wilson, William (Bill) Carter Strange, Ginger Candace Price, and Timothy Lee Strange. They shared a bond that time nor distance could diminish. Hal’s dedication to his country led him to serve in the US Army during the Vietnam wartime, alongside his brother Bill. Stationed at Fort Kobbe military base in the Republic of Panama, Hal found not only a duty but also a love that would last a lifetime. His union with Nimia N. Strange née Vergara Cedeno began with a civil marriage in Panama on January 30th, 1970, just before Hal returned to base for guard duty. Despite the absence of a honeymoon, their commitment endured, shaping a marriage that spanned 54 years. Upon returning to the United States, Hal and Nimia built a life together, residing primarily in Michigan. Hal’s career in telecommunications, starting with Hinkles and McCoy, blossomed with General Telephone (GTE), which later became Verizon. His work wasn’t just a job; it was a source of joy, fostering enduring friendships that he considered family. Hal, alongside Nimia, embraced the joys and challenges of parenthood, raising their children Charlotte Angel Gapinski (Kevin) and Antonio Ray Strange (Michele née Wright) in Gaylord, Michigan. Hal held no greater joy than that of his family and his love for his grandchildren Alyssa Gabrielle Beckley (Shane) née Gapinski, Zackary Ray Strange, Joseph Patrick Gapinski, Alexis Cassandra Gapinski, Thomas Ray Strange, and Cameron Ray Strange. During his retirement years in Texas, he welcomed great-grandchildren, including Montgomery Finn Beckley, Bentley Ray Strange, Benedict Michael Beckley, Denton Gene Strange, Mia Cassandra Rodriquez, Krew Ray Strange and Brimley Ray Strange. Papa, your giving heart and unwavering strength are dearly missed. Hal’s inner child shone brightly, and he leaves behind a legacy of love for nieces and nephews who adored his playful spirit. Known for his selflessness, Hal would give his last dollar and the shirt off his back to help others. A hardworking man, he instilled the values of diligence and enjoying life to the fullest. His heart found its home in Panama, where he discovered deep love and family ties. Hal wished to be laid to rest among those he considered family and those who chose to love him. In his final days, surrounded by the love of his faith-filled wife, Nimia, who dedicated herself to caring for him, Hal spent precious moments in prayer with God. A future memorial service is planned stateside to honor the remarkable life of Hal Ray Strange. His memory lives on in the hearts of those he touched with his generosity, love, and enduring spirit.
