Ted Strauss (File photo)
We regret to report that Theodore “Ted” Strauss died this morning at his Preston Hollow home. For those couple of folks who are new to the Strauss family, he was known as “First Husband of Dallas,” “Bob’s kid brother” and “Nancy’s and Janie’s dad”.
But for those who had encountered the Stamford-reared Texan’s charm and intelligence, he was his own man and loved life. Having married the late, former Mayor Annette Strauss on September 8, 1946, their 52-year marriage lasted until her death in December 1998. In November 2007 he married Susan “Sue” Wayne, who was his constant companion.
In March 2013 he was honored by The Family Gateway at the Mansion with Dallas’ top-tier philanthropists and civic leaders in attendance. At the elegant dinner, Mayor Mike Rawlings took full advantage of Ted’s love of laughter by saying:
- “We’re here to honor Bob’s younger and richer brother, Ted.”
- Ted once told Rawlings, “Mike, you’re doing a wonderful job, but you’re no Annette Strauss.”
- Ted’s grandkids nicknamed him “Poopie,” because one night came home and said, “I’m pooped.”
But Ted was not one to let the mayor/former Pizza Hunt president escape untouched, saying, “And your pizzas were lousy, too!”
While Ted’s business successes extended across the board from Susan Crane Packaging to banking, he was proudest of his family and celebrated each of their accomplishments as if they were his own.
A memorial service will take place at 4 p.m. on Monday at Temple Emanu-El. It would have been the 68th anniversary of his marriage to Annette.
Our heartfelt condolences are extended to Ted’s family and world of friends.