The Shadow
Bernard Bondy Strauss, lovingly known as Bernie and Uncle Binky, long-time resident of Covington and most recently of McLean, VA, passed away on September 29, 2017 in Northern Virginia.
A memorial service and tribute in his honor will be held this Sunday, October 8, 2017, at National Funeral Home, 7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA, starting at 2:30 pm. Those who knew him are most welcome and encouraged to attend.
Bernard was born on June 24, 1924 in New York City, the older son of Caroline and Leo Strauss and brother of Leo, Jr. and his wife Sylvia. Bernard was a truly devoted son and brother.
His devotion as Uncle Binky extended to niece Julie and nephew Joseph and great nephews and nieces David, Jenna, Caroline, Andrea, and Joe.
Bernard graduated from New York University. A proud patriot, Bernie served in World War II in the Pacific theater, including in Iwo Jima. He moved to Covington as a young man where he worked for Salterini, Jane Colby, and ultimately was the Purchasing Agent for The Homestead.
Bernard was an avid life-long golfer. A member of Allegheny Golf Club, Bernard ran the senior golf league for countless years. The consummate expert on everything trains, Bernie travelled the world by train in such places as Siberia, China, and Japan, and rode virtually all rail lines in the United States. An ardent traveler, Bernard cherished his more than 20 years of annual monthly stays at Costa Dorada in Bucerias, Mexico, where he built beautiful friendships.
Bernard served as President and Board member of the Charles P. Jones Memorial Library for many years. A strong advocate for the library, Bernard spent hours there daily and was adored by library staff. He was a voracious reader and found even the most daunting crossword puzzle a mere challenge.
His countless stories, soft voice, deep and lively laugh, understated, subtle humor, and considered wisdom are irreplaceable. We deeply love and will miss our dear Uncle Binky.
May his memory be a blessing.
