Vivian Strait

Vivian Ruth Strait, 98, of Lenox Iowa, went to be with the Lord on August 28, 2024, surrounded by loved ones at the Lenox Care Center, with care provided by EveryStep Hospice. No public services are planned. Vivian will be laid to rest in the W. Fairview Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to the Lenox Presbyterian Church and/or EveryStep Hospice. Online condolences can be shared at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com

Vivian Ruth (Moore) Strait was born on November 27, 1925 at the family farm. She was the oldest of four children born to Clark E. and Ruth (Toland) Moore. Growing up, Vivian helped with household and farm chores along with helping with her younger siblings. She attended school in Lenox as well as Roosevelt in Des Moines. She worked at various places in Des Moines such as Land & Title Company and Hotel Fort Des Moines. It was there in Des Moines that she met her perfect match, Mel. 

Vivian and Mel were married on September 22, 1951. They moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, and became proud parents of a son, Steven. They started and ran a restaurant in Lincoln for 25 years before moving back to Lenox in 1965. In Lenox, Vivian worked at the White Way Cafe and Mac's Café. Vivian was an excellent cook, with many benefitting from her time in the kitchen. Fried chicken, pies and chocolate malts were some family favorites that Vivian would make. 

Vivian and Mel later picked up crafting together. Mel would cut wood pieces and Vivian would paint them. Vivian began painting pictures as well, in which many family and community members still have pieces of her art to cherish. Vivian also enjoyed dancing, making sure Mel accompanied her. That girl could move with her jitter bug! Vivian and Mel had 65 wonderful years together being proud parents and grandparents. Vivian was strong in her faith. Reading and studying the bible was a daily routine and something she treasured.

Vivian is survived by her son, Steven Strait and wife Kathleen of Creston, Iowa; two grandchildren: Stacie Strait and husband Chris Duncan of Winfield, Kansas, and Michael Strait and wife Lydia of Fort Worth, Texas; four great-grandchildren: Jocelyn (Strait) Feldhausen of Wichita, Kansas, Kaden Van De Grift, Eli Strait and Esme Strait; two great-great grandchildren: Foster Strait and Scarlet Feldhausen; sisters: Delores (Moore) Carter and husband Bill, Betty (Moore) Samo and husband Charles; sister-in-law, Virgina Keating; nephews: Bill (Mary) Carter, Randy (Tacy) Samo, Jeff Samo, Michael (Lori), Kelly (Marsha) Moore, Kim Lane, James Wimmer, Marvin (Kay) Wimmer, Kelly (Raylina) Wimmer and Norman (Diane) Strait; nieces: Sheryl (Lary) Norlan, Sandy (Galen) Floyd, Marsha Jividen and Renee (Deet) Andersen. Vivian is also survived by other great-nieces and great-nephews who she dearly admired.

Vivian was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin H. Strait in 2016; parents: Clark E. Moore and Ruth (Toland) Moore; in-laws, Rolla and Mable Strait; brother: Clark Jr “Buddy” Moore; brothers-in-law: Norman, Marion and Floyd; sisters-in-law: Helen Moore and Bernice Wimmer; nephews: Harold L. Moore and Charlie Carter; great-nephew; Matt Samo; as well as other nephews and nieces.