In Loving Memory of My Dear Friend, Dan Strait (1925–2023)
My heart aches as I share the story of my dear friend, Dan Strait, who left us so gently on September 12, 2023, just eighteen days shy of his 98th birthday. Dan was a man whose warmth, kindness, and boundless love for music touched everyone who knew him, and I feel so grateful to have called him my friend.
Born on October 1, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, to Walter and Sophie Strait, Dan’s life was a tapestry of courage, love, and devotion. Right after high school, in 1943, he answered the call to serve in the U.S. Navy, spending his final days of service aboard the USS Ormsby in the South Pacific. When the ship was decommissioned in Mobile, Alabama, in 1946, Dan received his honorable discharge, carrying with him stories and strength that shaped the man he’d become.
In 1948, Dan set out for Houston, Texas, where he worked for an oil field equipment manufacturer. But it was there, in that bustling city, that fate gifted him the love of his life, Irene Wilcox. Oh, how his eyes would light up when he spoke of her. They married on March 4, 1951, and their love story spanned 63 beautiful years until Irene’s passing in 2014. Together, they raised four wonderful children—Danna Lynn, Robert Clinton, David Carlton, and Nancy Irene—each a reflection of their parents’ heart and spirit.
In 1963, Dan and Irene took a leap of faith, moving their family to Austin to start Strait Piano & Organ Co. at 908 N. Lamar. What began as a small dream blossomed into Strait Music Co., a haven for musicians and music lovers alike. Dan poured his soul into supporting Austin’s music scene, lending his heart and support to events like the Kerrville Folk Festival, Kerrville Festival of Music, Austin Festival of Music, Festival Atamian, and the Austin Winter Music Festival. As a Baldwin Piano Dealer he helped numerous artists on the international music scene as well. His passion earned him accolades, including the honor of June 5, 2003, being declared Dan Strait Day by Mayor Gus Garcia, who celebrated Dan as a cultural icon. The City Manager, Toby Futrell, once said Dan was a shining example of how to thrive in business with integrity and grace.
Dan’s legacy lives on through his family, who carried forward his vision at Strait Music Co. His son Robert served as President for nearly three decades, his son David followed in his footsteps selling pianos, and now his grandson Clint leads as the third generation, keeping Dan’s dream alive. It was a joy to see how proud Dan was of his family, his eyes twinkling as he shared stories of their work together.
Even after facing colon cancer in 1985, Dan’s spirit remained unbroken. He swung his golf clubs well into his 90s, each game a testament to his resilience and zest for life. He carried a quiet strength, a warmth that made everyone feel seen and valued.
Dan was welcomed home by his parents, Walter and Sophie, his brother Walter Lee, his sister Nancy Cody, and his beloved Irene. He leaves behind his four children and their families, eight grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews who were so dear to his heart. I can still hear his laughter, see his gentle smile, and feel the comfort of his presence.
A memorial service to celebrate Dan’s life was held on November 9, 2023, at 1 PM at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home, 5416 Parkcrest Drive, Austin, TX 78731. I know he’d want us to gather with love, sharing stories and music, just as he always did.
If you’d like to honor Dan’s memory, please consider a donation to:
Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM): myhaam.org
Swan Songs: swansongs.org
American Cancer Society: cancer.org/donate
Dan, my friend, you filled our lives with music, generosity and love. I’ll carry you in my heart always
Richie
