Henry Charles Stramel, 88, of Hays, Kansas passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026 at his home. He passed away peacefully with family by his side.
Henry was born in Hays on January 30, 1937 to Stephen and Elizabeth (Braun) Stramel. He was the youngest of six children and was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; Alfred, Eleanor, Agnes, Richard, and Mary. He grew up in Hays, attended school, and raised his family there.
Henry was united in marriage to Irene Miller on December 27, 1958, and they were married for 56 years. Their life was blessed with five children: Kathy, Sharon, Laurie, Carol, and Delores.
Hard work was imbedded in Henry’s character and he instilled that work ethic in his daughters. He was employed by Hunter Construction and later by Pierce – Schippers Construction Company for 35 years.
Fishing was one of Henry’s favorite pastimes, and he would have bets with his girls for the biggest or most fish caught on a trip to the local lakes around Hays. Henry enjoyed thrifting at local thrift shops and garage sales looking for that special deal. The best buy he ever made at a garage sale was his dog, Tucker, which he bought for a $20 bill. This brought a chuckle every time that story was told. He also enjoyed playing games, putting puzzles together, gardening, and watching television with his dog, Tucker, on his lap. He often got roped into helping with crafty woodworking projects for his family. His construction background also gave him the ability to be the family handyman, and he frequently had his toolbox out, building or repairing something for someone.
Henry is survived by his children; Kathy Cooley (Tracy) of Overland Park, Sharon Obenland of Roeland Park, Laurie (Jim) Mortinger of Hays, Carol Williams of Wichita, and Delores Stramel of Hays, eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and his dog, Tucker.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Monday, February 2, 2026 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Fr. Nick Parker officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Sunday and from 9:30 am until service time on Monday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains. Condolences and memories of Henry may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com