Wesley Ross Straup

Wesley R. Straup, age 94, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026 at Brentwood of Niles Senior Center.  Wes was born on January 19, 1932 to the union of Frederick and Eva Straup, who preceded him in death.  He was a lifelong resident of South Bend and Buchanan, Michigan.

Following graduation from Woodrow Wilson High School, Wes was drafted into the U.S. Army.  He served his country proudly during the Korean War.  While serving, he married Nancy (Pool) Straup on March 14, 1953, with the marriage ending in 1975.  Wes married Barbra (Yates) Straup on November 12, 1975, who preceded him in death on August 22, 2013.  
Surviving Wes, are his two children Kenneth (Jennifer) Straup and Sandra Straup; grandchildren Holly (Clayton) Lockwood and Sarah Straup; his brother Damon (Sharon) Straup; his sister Janet (Steve) Wendt; step-children John (Julie) Griffin and Jeffrey (Kim) Griffin; and step-grandchildren Kasey (Reid) McBeth, Tiffany (Andrew), Jeffrey (Kori) Griffin, Samantha Phillips, and Nic (Porsche) Griffin.  Wes also has eight great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his brother Newton.  

Wes was a man of understated accomplishments, hard work, and integrity.  He worked many jobs over his life, beginning with helping build his father’s Phillips 66 garage, a couple years at Studebaker assembling automobiles, and ending with nearly 20 years at the AT&T distribution center.

Wes cherished his time spent with family and friends.  Vast hours were spent entertaining at his backyard pool creating special memories for all.  He loved playing cards, square dancing, fishing, attending sporting events, and taking trips with Barb to Vegas.  He also loved all animals, which included raising horses.   

Wes influenced many over his life and meant so much to so many people.  His legacy flows through his entire family.  He will be deeply missed.

Arrangements are being made through Palmer Funeral Homes - Hoven Chapel in Buchanan, MI.  There will be no visitation or services.  A celebration of life may be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be considered for the Michiana Humane Society at https://michianapets.org. If you would like to leave online condolences for Wesley and his family, please visit www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.