Zanesville Philanthropist, Bill Straker, Dies

A well known Zanesville businessman and philanthropist has died of natural causes at the age of 98. J. William (Bill) Straker started working in the oil and gas division of the Zanesville Tool and Supply Company which became the Oxford Oil Company in 1948. He served as Oxford’s president and general manager until he retired in 1984. He was the founding chairman of the Muskingum Area Technical College Foundation (now Zane State College) and one of the founding directors of the Muskingum County Community Foundation. Straker and his wife, Mary Helen, created the J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation in 1994 for the benefit of the Muskingum County Community, in an effort to give back to the region where their living was made. The Straker’s philanthropic efforts included building the structure that houses the Muskingum County Community Foundation, purchasing the offices of the United Way, and, as advocates of higher education, supporting building projects at Muskingum University; Ohio University, Zanesville; and Zane State College. Mr. Straker may be best known for his significant support of The Wilds, beginning with the construction of the first veterinary clinic and culminating in the Cabins at Straker Lake and nature trail utilized by the Mighty Oaks Warrior Program and overnight Wilds visitors.

There will be a memorial service at Grace United Methodist Church in Zanesville June 26th with details to follow when more is known about the Stay at Home provisions in Ohio. Instead of flowers, please make a contribution in Mr. Straker’s name to the Muskingum County Community Foundation or Grace United Methodist Church. The Snouffer Funeral Home in Zanesville is assisting the family during this time.