Jerry Thomas Strayer, 93, of Mineral Point, PA, joined our Lord on Saturday, April 14, 2018. Born August 16, 1924 in Johnstown, PA, he was the son of the late Charles Calvin Strayer and Grace (Johns) Strayer, Johnstown.  Jerry’s ten siblings also greeted him at heaven’s gate: sisters Irene Gehl, Fern Brosius, Mildred Naugle, Emily Forney and June Gindelsperger; brothers Carl, Don, Ken, Bill and Bryce Strayer. Jerry was an avid basketball and softball player in his youth, playing on 2 national title winning softball teams.  He was also a charter member of the Sheridan Athletic Club and graduate of Johnstown High School. Devoted to his faith, Jerry was a lifelong member of Morrellville Church of the Brethren where his father and uncle were founding architects and carpenters.  Jerry shared his love for the Lord, as a dedicated and active member of the congregation, joyfully serving as deacon and head usher throughout his life. A veteran of the Second World War, Jerry proudly served his country in the navy in the Pacific theater of the conflict aboard the USS Hamilton naval Wickes class destroyer.  Quiet and soft-spoken, he never raised his voice and was always patient and forgiving. Mr. Strayer was also a lifetime steelworker and retiree of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation of Johnstown, PA where he worked as a welder in the car shop.“Grandpap/PapPap” enjoyed carpentry and home improvement projects, puttering around in the yard, and of course, taking Popsicle breaks in the garage. Jerry’s compassion and kindness was evident at the Jackson Township District 14-J Lion’s Club, where Jerry held many office positions, including club president.  He loved the fundraisers and charities like the pancake breakfast and white cane collection as well as any event where he could taste the community’s baked goodies and treats! Some of his favorite activities included: hiking, swimming and sledding; playing board and card games; organizing family reunions and visiting relatives and enjoying the annual giant gingerbread house made by his granddaughter Theresa; and working on the car and riding the lawnmower.  A perfect day started with the Lord and a cup of coffee, was followed by chats with neighbors and friends, and ended with his Katie and a cookie in each hand. He is survived by loving wife of 67 years, Kathryn “Kay” Louise (Piskuric), 88; son Jerry Thomas Jr. and daughter-in-law Mary Ann (Misoda), Akron, PA; four grandchildren Jason Valazak, Germantown, MD; Jennifer (Valazak), wife of Kurt Hoffman, McMurray, PA;  Dr. Theresa Strayer, Akron, PA; and Lee Strayer, Mineral Point, PA, who lived with and cared for his grandparents over the past few years;  two great grandchildren Kaylin and Riley Hoffman; and a large extended family including many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by daughter Christine Marie (Strayer) and son-in-law Joseph Valazak of Heilwood, PA.  Peace Prayer of St. Francis…”Lord, make me an instrument of your peace…and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.” At Jerry’s request there will be no visitation. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc. “Exclusive Provider of Veterans & Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com