Carl Robert "Bob" Strand, 86, passed away on March 11, 2011, at Thorne Care Center in Hutchinson. He was born July 1, 1924, in Hutchinson, to Carl Fred and Lula May (Lee) Strand. Bob was a renowned musician, and after graduating from high school he followed his passion, playing saxophone and clarinet in prominent swing bands in the United States.

In 1947, he married Barbara Ellen Harper, and to this union was born a son, Thomas.

After he retired from music, he worked in advertising, first in Lansing, Michigan, and then having his own advertising business in Williamston, Michigan. Most of his retirement years were spent in Williamston, though he ultimately returned to Hutchinson.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Thomas Robert Strand, Springfield, Missouri, his sister and brother-in-law, Corinne and Wendall Kelly, and niece, Patty Kelly, Hutchinson, Kansas.

He is survived by: his niece, Mary Keeley; nephew, Mike Douglas and wife Margo; great-nephew, Gary Douglas and wife Dori; and several great nieces and nephews, all of Hutchinson; niece, Debora Wilson and husband Don, Leavenworth; former wife, Barbara E. Owens; and daughter-in-law, Mauna Loa Strand, Springfield, Missouri.

A graveside service will be held at Fairlawn Cemetery on Tuesday, March 22, 2011, at 11 a.m. with Reverend Robert B. Brooks presiding. Elliott Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.