Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
James Russell Straayer, aged 74, passed away on March 14th due to lung cancer. He was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and had lived in Alaska for the last 45 years. James is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda. He also leaves behind his children Leslie (Joshua) Varys, Joe (Chelsie) Straayer, Annie (Eric) Hershey, and his grandchildren Lincoln, Alana, Hunter, and Caleb. Additionally, he is survived by his sister Kris (Steve) Thynes, and many other relatives. James was preceded in death by his brother Jack, sister Shelly Brewster, and parents Jack and Eugenia. Per his request, there will be no public service. Get out and enjoy the great outdoors!