Gary Straughan age 78 a resident of Vannoys Mill Rd. Philippi passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2015 in Mon General Hospital. He was born November 29, 1936 in Smithers, WV a son of the late Paul Straughan and Elizabeth S. Cannaday. Surviving are-
three daughters, Kimberly D. Sponaugle and husband Bill of Buckhannon
Vicki R. Straughan of Philippi
Amy E. Burge and husband Cpl. Daniel W. Burge, Jr. of Elkins
one son, John Paul Straughan of Philippi
five grandchildren, Jerry Straughan, Hope Willhoit, Samantha Straughan, Ethan Crites and Amber Phillips
former wife, Janet Straughan
After the he finished his service with the WV Air National Guard, he enrolled in the WV Institute of Technology; afterwards he started work as a miner for Cannelton Coal Company. Gary wanted a job that would make a difference in the environment, which led to him becoming a Conservation Officer with 40 years of service from, 1967-2007. He was awarded Conservation Officer of the Year in 1997, which was one of the highlights of his career.
He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed boating.
Friends will be received at the Wright Funeral Home 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 from 5-8 pm, Thursday, October 29 from 8 am-8 pm and on Friday, October 30 from 8 am- 2 pm the service time with Rev. Eli Hostetler officiating. Interment will follow in the Marsh Cemetery at Tacy.







So sorry for the loss of your loved one, he was always a very good man, always helping people, he was such a wonderful Conservation officer, he was a very truthful person, when it came to the law, may God bless u and your family in the days, weeks, and months ahead. God bless all of u.
Fine man… My dad thought a lot of Gary…
Gary was a very good friend, neighbor and game warden! He would always come very quickly when I would call him about somebody breaking the law; he will be missed by many, prayers for his family!
Sorry for your loss he was a good man
Gary was such a wonderful man, treated me like gold no matter what the circumstances. He was the light of his familys eye, and will be forever be remembered and missed. I wish I could have seen him one more time, and heard that chuckle. Love you all!
You were a great guy. Hate to see you leave so soon. You are now in heaven watching over your family.
May God Bless all.
Terry Shamblin signing for Major Ray D. Shamblin who went on ahead of Gary on Nov.1, 2013.
Remembering a good friend. THanks for your many years of service with the WV Department of Natural Resources
My Thoughts & Prayers Are With Youall.
Gary was a great man and missed very much!
Sympathy and prayers to all the family. Gary and I were classmates at Montgomery High School…Class of 1954. We were also childhood friends and attended the same church when they lived in Smithers. It was always good to see him at the class reunions…he will be missed.
Janet and family, you have my deepest sympathy.
So very sorry for your loss, I pray your family finds comfort and peace during this time.
Gary came to Barbour CO Duty following my appearance in 1965. Loved working with him he was fearless and taught me a lot as a new Trooper. I remember his hot rod Dodge PioneerNone faster! RIP Brother!
Dear Vicki and Family,
Love and prayers to all of you on the loss of your beloved Dad. Thinking of you and hoping you find peace.
Cindy
Sorry for your loss Vicki, prayers…
In memory of Gary Straughan, John Paul Straughan lit a candle
It's hard to believe that it's been 3 years since God took you from us. I think about you every day and cry because I miss you so much! But laugh and smile at the wonderful times we've shared together. You will always be in my heart. I love and miss you so much poppa.
In memory of Gary Straughan, Vicki Mahaffey lit a candle
I love and miss you dad ❤️
Dad, I never stop thinking about you (My Hero) in life. You were the perfect Dad! You were the roots that kept the family together. ❤️ I love and miss you so so much.