Retired Wyandotte Principal Bill Strait Dies at 69

Retired Principal William "Bill" Strait died suddenly Tuesday. He was 69 years old.

Bill began his career with Wyandotte Public Schools in 1970 as a sixth grade teacher at the former Woodruff Elementary School. Two years later, he became principal of Monroe Elementary. 

In 1983, he transferred to to become assistant principal and chairman of counseling and special education. 

In 1986, he returned to Monroe as its principal, where he served until his retirement in 2009. 

After retirement, he continued to volunteer at the elementary school.

Wyandotte school superintendent Carla Harting said Bill dedicated his life to educating the district's children.

"Bill Strait was a wonderful educator who always put students first," she said. "I have known him for over 30 years. He was always willing to do whatever was necessary for students to be successful. He approached every situation with humor and made sure everyone felt supported. Even after his retirement, he continued to volunteer and would substitute for our principals. ... Bill will be greatly missed!"

His wife, Vonna Strait, also is a retired teacher from .

In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by a daughter, Kristen, and a brother, Robert.

is handling the arrangements. Visitation is from 2:30 to 8 p.m. Friday. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at . He will be interned at Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery in Huron Township.

The family asks that donations in Bill's honor be made to First Presbyterian Church.