Charles Straka

Charles A. "Charlie" Straka, age 77, of Toledo passed away on Friday, March 15, 2013 at The Toledo Hospital. He was born at home on September 29, 1935 to Charles P. and Jessie E. (Layman) Straka in Toledo.

Charlie proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict, where he was involved with the testing of the H-Bomb. He also served as an electronic technician on the USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) and the USS Hornet. He received an honorable discharge after four years of service. After his time spent in the military, he attended The University of Toledo for Business Education. Charlie joined the Toledo Police Department on April 1, 1966 and retired on January 13, 1983 as a Sergeant. Charlie took great pride in serving his community as a police officer. After retirement he was a driver for Owens Illinois and he especially enjoyed the camaraderie that he shared with those who were in his company.

Charlie was a member of the Command Officers Retiree Assoc. with the Toledo Police Department, F.O.P. Lodge #40 and Conn Weissenberger Post #587.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Diane L. (Ladriere) Straka, just having celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary; son, Chuck Straka; beloved grandson who was Charlie's pride and joy, Michael Straka; brother, Richard (Margie) Straka; sister-in-law, Shirley (Bob) Myers and many loving nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Annabelle (John) Street and brother, Norman (Jean) Straka.

The family will receive guests from 2-8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2013 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300). Funeral Services will begin in the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2013. The Toledo Police Department will conduct a
Final Salute Service immediately following the Funeral Services. Military Services will also be rendered.

Charlie's pride and joy was his grandson Michael; he had wished to see his grandson attend college one day; the family requests that in lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to help Michael receive the college education that Charlie had hoped for.