Albert C. Stryker, 83

Albert C. Stryker, 83, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2009, at Mountain View Manor in Eureka. He was born Jan. 7, 1926, in Bethel, Conn., the son of John C. and Minnie M. (Mason) Stryker.

Albert served during World War II in the U.S. Army, 335th Infantry, Rail Splitters, and was awarded the Bronze Star for courage and heroism in combat. Upon his return from France in 1946 he married Jean Mireault and reared six children.

Albert was an avid horseman, to the point he rode in Wild West shows in Connecticut and surrounding areas. He strongly supported his children in the 4-H Horse Club and continued his dreams in the West running wagon trips in Glacier Park.

Albert worked for Connecticut Colprovia, operating heavy equipment for many years before he moved with his family to Arizona. He worked for Cypress Bagdad Copper Mine until his retirement, at which time he relocated to Fortine to live out his life in the beautiful wilderness.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Donald E. Stryker; his sister, Irene E. Herbst; and his life partner, Zann Johnson.

He is survived by his brothers, John C. Stryker and wife, Audrey, of Brookfield, Conn., and Harold R. Stryker and wife, Nancy, of Crossville, Tenn.; his sons, Roy A. Stryker and wife, Carla, of Phoenix, Guy K. Stryker and wife, Gale, of Greeneville, Tenn., Corey S. Stryker and wife, Sharon, of Mountain Home Idaho, and Dana L. Stryker and wife, Kim, of Kalispell; two daughters, Joyce S. Gordon and husband, Bob, of Durham, N.C., and Jo A. Stryker and husband, Eddie Rosas, of Fortine; 22 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

There will be a private memorial service held at his home in Fortine on Aug. 8.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Albert's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Albert's guest book.