Ralph W. Strachan ’44 died on July 27, 2017, in Scarborough, Maine.

(The following was published in the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram on July 30, 2017:)

SCARBOROUGH – Ralph W. Strachan, 96, passed away on July 27, 2017, at home in Scarborough.

Ralph was born on March 27, 1921, in Flint, Mich., the son of Reginald and Ethel (Dyer) Strachan.

As a child, he moved to Maine, and attended South Portland schools. He graduated from South Portland High School in 1939. A few years later, he joined the Army during World War II. Ralph and his wife of 72 years were married on July 14, 1945. After the war, Ralph attended and graduated from Bowdoin College in 1947, where he studied math and economics. Ralph was a standout track star during his high school days, and went on to be a hurdler and relay team member for the Bowdoin Polar Bear Track Club. Ralph participated in a big race in Madison Square Gardens during his college years.

Ralph and Faith lived in Cape Elizabeth, where they raised two children: a daughter, Susan; and a son, Andrew. Ralph worked at Shaw’s Supermarket from 1949 to his retirement in 1982, where he earned the title of vice president and director (merchandising).

Ralph and Faith enjoyed travelling together and saw some wonderful places. Closer to home, Ralph enjoyed sailing the waters of Casco Bay, and he enjoyed skiing at Sugarloaf with the entire family. In more recent years, he really enjoyed gardening, feeding the birds, and spending time with Faith. Ralph enjoyed listening to the updates of each grandchild and great-grandchild, and he and Faith were good examples to the family on the longevity of marriage and friendship.

Ralph was predeceased by his sister Jane Hale, of Jamesville, N.Y.; as well as his daughter, Susan (Strachan) Karam; and son-in-law Ramzi Q. Karam, of Scarborough. Ralph is survived by his wife Faith Strachan, of Scarborough; and son Andrew Strachan (and wife Donna), of Machias. Ralph is also survived by six grandchildren: Chris and wife Stacy) Karam, of Scarborough; Ralph (and wife Andi) Karam, of Falmouth; Jeff (and wife Michele) Karam, of Stratham, N.H.; Todd (and wife Tiffany), of Seattle, Wash.; Owen (and wife Bethany), of Kansas City, Mo.; and Rachel (and husband Lester) Burgess, of Simpsonville, S,C. Ralph is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to express appreciation to the staff of Piper Shores for their kind, loving care.