Christine “Joan” Strano, 78, died unexpectedly at her home on October 17, 2022. She was born October 2, 1944, in Wichita to William Clark and Olive Aileen (Kissick) Anderson.
Joan graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1962, and Southwestern College, Winfield, in 1966, earning her bachelor’s degree.
While at Southwestern College, Joan met a young man from Punxsutawney, PA, Richard Francis “Dick” Strano. They were married June 4, 1966, in South Hutchinson. Together, they raised two daughters, and eventually, their family grew to include two wonderful sons-in-law and seven precious grandchildren. Dick died March 6, 2018, after he and Joan shared nearly 52 years of marriage.
Joan was a natural born teacher. Throughout her career, Joan taught health/physical education and science in Osborne USD 392 and Hutchinson USD 308. Most recently, she was a substitute teacher for Buhler USD 313. In her free time, she enjoyed being outdoors; Joan was an outstanding gardener, and had a talent for growing amazing flowers. She also enjoyed decorating, especially at Christmas. Joans’ greatest joy and calling though was that of being a mom and grandma; she loved her daughters and grandchildren unconditionally. She would do anything for them. Joan attended Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson.
Joan is survived by: daughters, Angie White (Eric) of Hutchinson, and Amy Dye (Derek) of Lawrence; grandchildren, Ethan, Addi, Aidyn and Eli White, and Josie, Emme, and Harper Dye; brother, Jeff Anderson (Rogene) of Lawrence; sisters, Jan Dwyer and Jill Foss of Hutchinson; a sister-in-law, Tamra Strano of Baytown, TX; and her faithful four-legged companions, dogs, Berki and Berne and cats, Rush and Rusty.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother’s in-law, Robert “Bob” Strano, Ed Dwyer, and Doug Foss.
Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Bart Horton officiating. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. Cremation has taken place.