The only child of Frank D Stranahan, co-founder of Champion Spark Plug Co., he was a business executive and inventor.  He developed the ceramic spark plug which was critical to the success of the U.S. Air Force during WW II. 

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He was a member of the Toledo Aviation Commission which opened Toledo Municipal airport, (formerly Metcalf Field, now known as Toledo Executive Airport), to commercial use. He served as chairman of the development committee for Toledo Express Airport.  He liked to combine business and philanthropy. He donated funds to build the community services building and managed the Stranahan Foundation.