The Strassel family from Royalton, N.Y., never though that Monday, Oct. 19, 2015 would be the last day they would see Robert Strassel, father of three children, and their Golden retriever named Ellie alive, but sadly, both family members were killed by two separate cars early that Monday morning.
According to WIVB in the darkness of dawn Ellie was hit by a car first and killed instantly outside the family home on Akron Road. The car that hit the dog did not stop and as Robert attempted to remove the body of his four-legged best friend, another car drove by hitting the pet owner and killing him too.
Speed was not a factor in the unfortunate death of both Strassel family members. Official reports identify lack of light (sunlight and/or a light posts) as the main contributor in both accidents. Local residents know the area is a dangerous spot, because anyone walking on the side of the road is difficult to spot.
Deborah, Robert’s wife, remembers the last words her husband said that Monday morning. “When he left the house with a shovel he told me it was going to be a very bad, bad, bad, day.” Now she takes comfort thinking that her husband is with the family pet they all loved.
“Rob was hit. He went with Ellie,” she said. “So, I think, right away, Ellie and Rob were together immediately.”
Neighbors plan to start a petition collecting signatures to have the local government officials do something to reduce vehicular speed on the road or provided better lighting.
We are sorry Robert and Ellie left in such tragic way, and as the Strassel family, we believe they are together in heaven.