With heavy hearts and great sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a friend of many, Walter J. Strickland, on Saturday, October 23 ^rd , 2021 at St. Thomas Roddick Hospital in Stephenville at the age of 92.

Born in Rose Blanche, he was the only child of the late Bert and Eva Strickland. He was predeceased by his wife Dora of 58 years, grandson Randy, father and mother-in-law Thomas and Jessie Bird; step-mother-in-law Minnie Bird; brothers-in-law, Louis (Ada) Bird, Cyril (Alice) Bird, Frank (Melina) Bird, Cecil Bird, Raymond Bird, and sister-in-law Alice Bird.

Dad leaves behind with many precious memories his children Ruth (Dave), Walter (Leona), Scott (Amanda) of Port aux Basques and Linda (James) of Kitchener, Ontario, grandson Shane (Crystal) of Lloydminster, AB, Marcus and Lucas of Port aux Basques and granddaughter Ashlee (Carson) of Wabush, Labrador, great-grandchildren Madison, Layla, and Kiyla of Lloydminster, AB and Rogen LeRiche of Wabush, Labrador, brother-in-law Clayton Bird of Rose Blanche and sister in law Frances Bird of Fort McMurray, AB, first cousin Josie Spencer of Dartmouth, NS and his best buddy Jimmy French, plus a large circle of nieces, nephews and many friends worldwide.

As a young man, Dad fished with his father and uncles in their family vessel, The Strickland Bros. and was a merchant marine during war time. After Dad got married and started a family, he moved to Port aux Basques. He began working at Canadian National Railways and retired after 30 years of service. In May 1963, after the birth of his third child Linda (she proudly calls herself the taxi baby), Dad started his taxi business. This quickly became one of his greatest joys. The business had a few names before becoming Gateway Cabs which became known as the home of the 4 trees. Dad operated for 50 years before finally retiring in his mid eighties. Many would ask, "When are you retiring, Walt?". The answer was always the same … "One of these days. I just loves driving."

Dad was also artistically inclined and spent his free time painting and woodworking, (He was known for his sunflowers). He was a great storyteller and enjoyed sharing his vast stories of his many adventures with whomever he met. Every story ended with his big smile and his listeners were always left captivated.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dad's caregivers Leona Strickland and Emily Taylor. Your kindness will never be forgotten. We would also like to thank Wendy Gillam, Cook Strickland, Amanda Chaulk, Joan Mauger and Allison Hatcher. Thank you to Dr. Thomas (he always had a story for him on every visit), Angela and the Community Health Bloodwork group. A very special thank you to the doctors and staff at Sir Roddick Hospital in Stephenville for taking such great care of Dad in his final days.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 26 ^th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at East Haven Funeral Home Inc., (Grand Bay Location) 57 Grand Bay Road, Port aux Basques. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 27 ^th , at 11 a.m. from St. James Anglican Church, Channel-Port aux Basques officiated by Rev. Jane Allen. Interment to follow at St. James Anglican Cemetery, Barachois Hill, TCH, NL. Due to the latest Government regulations your Newfoundland VaxPass, photo ID and masks are required for entry to the visitation and church service. Flowers are graciously accepted or donations in Walt's memory can be made to the charity of one's choice. Funeral arrangements were in the care of East Haven Funeral Home Inc, 57 Grand Bay Road, Port aux Basques, NL. info@easthavenfuneralhome.com (709)-695-2300 www.easthavenfuneralhome.com

Forever In Our Hearts