Marc Timothy Straub, born December 18, 1947, in National City, California, passed away on June 13, 2026, at his home near Colville, Washington. He was the son of John and Elizabeth (Betty) Straub, and from an early age he embodied the traits that would define his life — intelligence, independence, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for solitude and the natural world.

Marc spent his early childhood in the Kent Valley before his family moved to a ranch near Wauconda, Washington. Life there shaped him in lasting ways. He graduated from Republic High School in 1966, carrying with him the work ethic, resourcefulness, and quiet determination that ranch life instills.

After high school, Marc attended Wenatchee Valley College briefly, and it was during this time — at a dance — that he met Judith (Judy) Van Lith, the woman who would become his lifelong partner. They married in February 1968, beginning a 60‑year journey together.

With the Vietnam conflict at its height, Marc enlisted in the U.S. Army and soon left for basic training and flight school. He achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer and served as a Huey assault ship pilot, flying many missions during his 1968–1969 tour of duty. While he was serving in Vietnam, his first son, Marc, was born in December 1968.

After completing his tour, Marc returned home to Judy and began working in the masonry trade taught to him by his father. The family grew with the births of John in December 1970 and Matthew in March 1974. Over the next several years, he worked in masonry and construction, building a reputation as a true craftsman.

Marc was a deep thinker with an inventive mind. Just before turning 40, he made the decision to return to school. He attended Central Washington University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. During this time, he interned with the Kittitas County Building Department. He soon became the County’s Building Official and Fire Marshal. He went on to serve several jurisdictions, including the City of Omak, Spokane County, Twisp, and Winthrop, bringing expertise, integrity, and a steady hand to each position he held.

Marc was an insatiable learner. His interests were wide-ranging, his tastes eclectic, and his curiosity unending. He taught his sons to be critical, independent thinkers — to question, to analyze, and to understand the world rather than simply accepting it. He was unwavering in his faith, grounded in solitude, and generous in ways that were quiet and unpublicized. He helped those in need without seeking recognition, offering his time, skills, and wisdom freely.

He built many homes over the years, each one a testament to his craftsmanship and exacting standards. He was always ready to lend a hand or offer guidance to his sons whenever they needed him.

Marc and Judy lived in many places throughout their nearly six decades together, but it was the quiet, peaceful beauty of the home they built near Colville that they treasured most — a place that reflected their shared love of nature, simplicity, and the life they built side by side.

Marc is survived by his sons Marc (Juli),  John (Christine), and Matthew (Jamie); his younger sister, Deborah Tetu; his brother-in-law Fred (Terri) Van Lith; his sister-in-law Joan (Michael) Allred; his sister-in-law Pamela Van Lith; ten grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy; his parents, John and Elizabeth (Betty) Straub; his brothers, Gary, Dan, and Jonathon, as well as his brother-in-law Gary Van Lith