Vincent Clayton Strouse

     Vincent Clayton Strouse, age 96, of Ithaca, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Schnepp Health Care Center in St. Louis, Michigan.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Ithaca, MI with Rev. Fr. Edwin Dwyer presiding. Burial will take place at North Star Cemetery, North Star, Michigan. Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan, on Tuesday from 2:00-8:00 p.m., with the family present from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Rosary will be prayed on Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

     Vincent was born on March 6, 1930, in Ithaca, Michigan, the son of George Frederick and Frances L. (McPeak) Strouse. He graduated from Ashley High School, with the Class of 1947.

     Vince grew up on his family's farm near Ashley, where he learned the value of hard work and helping others. As a young man, he proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, Vincent enjoyed a long and fulfilling career. He worked as a banker before becoming self-employed, preparing income taxes, doing upholstery work, and selling real estate. Later in life, he began purchasing timber and tree lots for a lumber company, a career he continued well into his 80s before retiring.

     Vince was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. He had a gift for making friends and never met a stranger. His kindness, generosity, and warm personality touched the lives of many, and countless people came to consider him an extended member of their family. He was a faithful member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church.

     He is survived by his children: Steven Strouse; Michael and Kathryn Strouse; Lorraine Strouse; Christopher and Deborah Strouse; Alan and Beverly Strouse; Dale and Bobbi Strouse; and Valerie Strouse. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Scotty Strouse; his great-grandson, Henry Marlow; and his siblings, Louis Strouse, Frederick Strouse, Audrey Zook, Bernice Wohlfert, Avis Holmes, Stewart MacLaren, and George Strouse.

     Memorials may be made to American Legion Post #334, 515 South Pine River Street, Ithaca, Michigan 48847. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes of Ithaca, Michigan.