Joseph Gerard Straus

Joseph Gerard Straus Jr., of Burlington MA, died Saturday afternoon from pancreatic cancer at the home of his brother, Meinrad Straus, in Richmond NH. He was 65 years old.
Born in Limestone, ME on August 3, 1955, he was the son of Joseph G. and Mildred (Cobb) Straus Sr. He was raised and educated in Burlington Mass., where he attended public school and was a graduate of Burlington High School, class of 1975.
After graduation Joseph enlisted in the United States Air Force and spent most of his enlisted time at Rhein Mein Air Force Base in Germany and the remainder at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana. After leaving the Air Force in 1981, Joey established his career in retail services and retired from Marshalls Department Stores in 2019.
Joey enjoyed photography and was an avid photographer. He also enjoyed sketch art and he was a great history buff, reading hundreds of books on the history of the Civil War.
Joseph was raised Catholic and his faith was important to him. He was able to receive his Catholic last rights at his brother's home shortly before his death.
Joseph is predeceased by his parents Joseph G. Straus Sr (1980) and Mildred E. (Cobb) Straus (2001) and his loving brother Carl, who died unexpectedly four weeks before Joey and is waiting to greet him in heaven. He is also predeceased by his infant twin nieces, Kelsie and Jillian Straus (2001).
Joseph is survived by his brother, Meinrad Straus (Roberta) of Richmond NH, sister, Marie A. Vilkas (John) of Boston Ma, niece Kelli Nicholson (James) of Salem NH, niece Heidi Straus of Salem NH and great-niece and nephews Kristen, Joshua and Anthony. He is also survived by three very dear friends, Sylvia Cerullo, Rosa Roman and Mark Tavenner.
A Graveside committal service at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington Ma, will be conducted in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joseph's name may be made to: Air Force Aid Society- www.afas.org