Monica S. Straiton, 96

Monica S. Straiton, age 96, of Waconia, formerly of New Prague, died peacefully on Thursday, June 30, 2022 at Good Samaritan Society in Waconia. She was born a twin, the younger of the two, on June 28, 1926 in Mendota to Martin and Susan (Hart) Stevens. She grew up in Westbrook, MN, where she graduated from Westbrook High School. She and her sister enjoyed sports throughout their lives and were active as majorettes in high school, one of the few sporting activities available to girls. They were both on the softball team for Norwest Bank, Monica as the pitcher. It was at one of the games that Monica would meet Thomas P. Straiton, who remained the love of her life until Tom’s death in 2021. They married on March 30, 1950 in Minneapolis. Like her sister, Monica was a gifted seamstress and the two were ahead of their time as entrepreneurs, owning their own drapery business, called Monica and Veronica Draperies. The two were always finding innovations that could improve or streamline their creations. They were both gifted with numbers and used that gift helping elderly people with their taxes. Monica was active in the Democratic Party and served as an election judge. When the drapery business closed it’s doors, Monica worked at Casey’s not fully retiring until her early 80’s.

A devoted Catholic, her faith carried her throughout life. She was an active member of St. Wenceslaus and her baking skills saw her baking the crescent rolls for the annual church festival for many years. She was a gifted hostess, enjoying the numerous Bridge Clubs and game and costume parties that were held at their home for fellow teachers and friends. Though she drank neither, she was famous for the mean cup of coffee and lime daiquiris that she made. Her baking was also legendary, particularly her strawberry pies. Sports remained an avid interest and priority throughout her life. She belonged to a women’s league at the New Prague Golf Club and enjoyed following sports on television, including the Twins, Golf (particularly if Tiger Woods was playing!) and the Vikings. The family knew not to call if the Vikings were on; Monica would refuse to talk to them until the game was over! Her engagement with life and enjoyment of her family will be missed by them and all who knew her.

Monica is survived by her children, Tom Straiton, Susan Straiton, Mary Straiton, Patti Straiton (Kathy Bemmels), Coleen (Joe) Kellen; grandchildren, Coleman Straiton, Lea Straiton, Brieana Straiton (Ryan Dellwo), Taylor Straiton, Molly Kellen (Colin Peterson), Jo Kellen; great-grandchildren, Phillip, Bobby, Nola, & Kira. Preceded in death by her husband, Tom, on November 21, 2021; parents; brothers, Michael & Raymond Stevens; sisters, Rosemary Findlay, twin sister, Veronica Yearneau.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, July 8, 2022 at 11:00 AM at the Church of St. Patrick of Cedar Lake, with Father Michael Miller officiating. Visitation will take place at church 1 hour prior to Mass starting at 10:00 AM. Burial will occur in the church cemetery followed by lunch in the church social hall. bruzekfuneralhome.com

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