Daniel 'Dan' Straszewski, 96

Daniel "Dan" Straszewski, Oct. 22, 1927-May 11, 2024. 

Born to Adam and Anna Straszewski of Trenton, New Jersey, on Oct. 22, 1927, Dan was the youngest of seven siblings, and the longest-living member of his predeceased family. Life gave him a passion for horses, which he mastered beginning with the Trotter Pacer race horses. In 1947, following his passion for horses, he adventured with the Montana Kid which led him to Libby. He was provided employment at the MK Ranch in Libby, until landing a new career as a lineman with Pacific Power and Light Company IBEW Local #768 until his retirement in 1983. 

Dan married his sweetheart Laura Smith in 1953 and they were married a record 70 plus years, and raised a family while they resided in the Flathead Valley. The best part about Dan was his love for his family and his horses. The love for horses he had was simply incredible, he trained them with compassion. He had the talent to make any horse trust and feel comfortable in his hands. He was a true horseman who loved sharing his knowledge with the world. All while sharing his passion for all things cowboy, and more, with his family and friends. 

Dan, our Montana Cowboy, is survived by his wife, Laura Straszewski; his son, Ron and daughter, Brenda Straszewski. 

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Diana Zahller. 

He left behind a legacy of five grandchildren including, Erika Neal, Jamey Campbell, Eric Straszewski, Chantel and Lauren Fredenberg; and seven great-grandchildren, Jacob Javorsky, Gracey and Isaac Neal, Paije Bauer, Yahtes May, Olivia and Victoria Campbell. 

Dan wanted to be laid to rest at Glacier Memorial Gardens. The service will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 24.