Howard A. "Sam" Stradal, age 84, of River Wood Estates, 950 South Rapids Road, Manitowoc, formerly of 2021 Menasha Avenue, Manitowoc, left this world to meet his Lord on Sunday, March 13, 2011 at River Wood Estates.

Howard was born on March 10, 1927 in Manitowoc. He was the son of the late Albert and Clara (Ronk) Stradal. Howard was a graduate of Lincoln High School in Manitowoc. In June of 1944 he entered the United States Army and served over seas during World War II. After his honorable discharge Howard returned to Manitowoc and became employed with Manitowoc Shipbuilding. In 1951 he became employed with the Manitowoc City Police Department from where he retired after 33 years of protecting our city. On June 23, 1956 Howard married Jean Mangin at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Manitowoc. Howard was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years: Jean; one daughter: Ann Stradal, Manitowoc; two sons: John and Dan Stradal, both of Manitowoc; special family friend: Jeannie Loberger, Manitowoc; along with other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Albert and Clara Stradal; one brother: Kenny Stradal; one brother-in-law: Les Mangin; three sisters-in-law: Mary Kadow, Nora Eno and Martha Mangin.

Memorial services will be held 12:00 PM on Thursday, March 17, 2011 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Waldo. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Richard Klingeisen with burial to take place at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Relatives and friends may call at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Thursday from 11:00 AM until the time of services at 12:00 noon.

Howard's family would like to thank Dr. Lynn Baatz, Richard and the staff at the cancer center at Holy Family Memorial Medical Center. The family would also like to thank Beth, Kathy, Joanne and the girls at River Wood Estates for the kindness they gave. The family also wants to recognize with their appreciation and thanks to three of Howard's nieces who were there for him always, Dolly Stokes, Lee Allen and Mary Ann Schroeder. Howard was a kind and good man whose love for his family and animals were always shown. May he rest in peace. Until we see you again, we love and miss you. Your Family.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorials directed to the Lakeshore Human Society.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.