Mr. Bert F. Straugh, 84, passed away on Wednesday morning, June 1st , 2005, following a long illness. His passing occurred in his home on Douglas St., with the support of his wife at his side. He was born on January 30, 1921 in Fenton, MI, a son of Jesse D. Straugh and Stella L. (Wertman) Straugh and was educated in Fenton schools. He married his loving wife of 27 years, Leota Corinne Ralston in Niles, MI on September 1, 1977, who always stood by his side and remained a constant source of comfort during his illness. The couple settled in Little Falls in 1988. Bert was rightfully proud of his heroic service to our country, serving with the United States Navy. He enlisted on November 29, 1942 and received an honorable discharge on November 21, 1945 and was the recipient of the Asiatic-Pacific Medal with three Stars, American Theater Medal, Victory and Good Conduct Medals and the Commendation 7th Fleet Medal. Bert remained a proud veteran even throughout his illness and was glad to celebrate this past Memorial Day. He was an electrician by trade and was last employed by John Hancock in Boston, MA. He was a master mason with the Free and Accepted Masons Lodge #437, St. Joseph, MI, a life member of the V.F.W. Post #4612, and was in attendance at the World War II Memorial Dedication Ceremony. His religious affiliation was with the First Baptist Church, Little Falls. Survivors include his beloved wife Leota; a loving daughter: Angela Jaquay and husband David of Dolgeville; children: Robert Ralston and wife Jean of Michigan, Reva Lee and husband Robert of Ak., William Ralston and wife Tabitha of Mass., Katheryn Ralston of Little Falls, John Ralston and wife Mary of MI; brothers and sisters: Jay Straugh of AK., Ruth Harter of MI., Michael Straugh of MI; sixteen cherished grandchildren: Kathryn, Alexander, David, Karen, Michael, Kendra, Kali, Sally, Jennifer, Rebecca, William, Alexandra, Mollie, Brian, Stephen and Jennifer; many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by two brothers and one sister. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 24 W. Monroe St., Little Falls on Friday, June 3, 2005 from 5-8 p.m.. Members of the Little Falls V.F.W. will gather at the funeral home on Friday at 6 p.m. to conduct their service. Bert's funeral will commence at 10 a,m. on Saturday morning, June 4th from the chapel of the funeral home with the Rev. Donald Dixon, pastor of the First Baptist Church, Little Falls, officiating, followed by full military honors accorded by members of the United States Navy. Interment will be privately held in Saratoga National Cemetery. Kindly consider memorial contributions to the Mohawk Valley Christian Academy or to Hospice Care, Inc; envelopes are available at the funeral home and donations may be made there as well. For directions to the funeral home, click the facilities link above.