Harriet “Jean” Strait

Harriet “Jean” Strait

Cedar Rapids

Harriet “Jean” Strait, 96, of Springville, Iowa, formerly of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at her home. A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery in Cedar Rapids. Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Marion is assisting the family.

Jean was born on August 24, 1929, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She was a 1947 graduate of McKinley High School. On August 2, 1947, Jean was united in marriage to Arnold Gene Strait in Cedar Rapids. She worked on the assembly line at Rockwell Collins, formerly Collins Radio, for over 37 years, before her retirement in 1988. Jean was a member of Kenwood Park United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids, where she enjoyed volunteering many times whenever needed. Jean and Arnold loved traveling all over the United States, including Alaska, and going on cruises. Following Arnold’s passing in 2001, Jean was very fortunate and blessed to maintain her home and reside there for over the next 20 years. Her love for flowers and gardening kept her busy and was matched only by her passion for reading books. Jean continued to travel all over and go on many trips. In 2023, at the age of 93, Jean sold her beloved home and moved to Springville, to live with her daughter.

Jean was widely recognized for her extraordinary contributions to her community, particularly through her heartfelt commitment to sewing. She generously crafted many hats for cancer patients and newborn babies. Jean’s creations were not merely fabric; they were expressions of love and hope that brought comfort to countless individuals. Jean was a steadfast member of the Rockwell Craft Club, where she served as President. Jean took immense pride in her crafting abilities, creating beautiful quilts and afghans that have become cherished family heirlooms. Throughout her life, she cared for many pets, but she leaves behind her precious dog, ‘Charlie’. Above all, Jean cherished her family, finding her greatest happiness in spending precious moments with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each gathering was a treasure trove of laughter and warmth, and her presence will be profoundly missed by all who held her dear. She will be remembered for her generous heart, creative spirit, and the familial bonds she nurtured throughout her life.

Jean is survived and lovingly remembered by her daughter, Linda (Dayle) McCleary of Springville; grandchildren, Bret McCleary and Jaime (Beau) Zaruba; great-grandchildren, Cassidy and Ashlynne; brother, Bob (Jean) Bisinger of Marion; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucille Edith Olsen; husband of 54 years, Arnold Strait; son, Jeff Strait; and brother, Emil Bisinger Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jean’s memory may be directed to: Springville Memorial Library, 264 Broadway Street, Springville, Iowa 52336.

Please share a memory of Jean at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.