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Franklin Dallas Stratton, 91 was born November 2, 1933 and
entered his eternal reward on February 16, 2025. He was born in Versailles
Indiana to Rolla Stratton and Hazel (Robertson) Stratton. He graduated from
Versailles High School (VHS) in 1951 where he was class treasurer and Varsity
Basketball letterman. He was always very active in the VHS Alumni Association
and with his beloved classmates. After graduation Frank proudly served in the United States
Navy from November 1955 until his discharge in August 1959. His best time
served was aboard the USS Intrepid CVA-11 and was honorably discharged. He met
and fell in love with Diana Stratton and her two sons Jeffrey and Brian who he
adopted and loved with his whole being. To that union was born Sheri Rene (Manella).
He was a loving husband and father who was able to do so in stressful times and
difficult events. He was a great dad! Frank was involved in consumer credit his entire working
career and retired many years ago from Fort Wayne National Bank now PNC. It has
been said by many that “He was the best boss and superior that I ever
had.” He was the proud father of Northrop Bruin children and
became so attached to the Bruin Nation that he painted his home burnt orange
and brown, likely to the chagrin of neighbors who had less spirited homes! Soon
after the passing of his beloved wife Diana he built an addition on Sheri’s
home and moved in. The care and love he received from Sheri, her saintly
husband, Al and their children and grandchildren was epic. During many years
there he delivery “nuclear material” to health facilities in the tri-state for
Cardinal and was beloved by all his customers. Frank travelled extensively during his Navy years, visiting
most countries in Europe on leave. Later in life he travelled with his children
to 48 states and a dozen countries in Asia, India and the Caribbean. He truly
lived the statement, “If you don’t want me along, don’t ask me.” Unfortunately, Frank developed the disease that ultimately
took most of his predecessors, Alzheimer’s and Dementia. During the progression
of his disease he was always kind, loving, funny and supportive of his family
and care givers. Frank lived a long and productive life marked by an unwavering
faith in Jesus Christ, love of country and family and a heritage of friendship. Frank is predeceased by his parents, his brothers George
William “Bill” and his wife Rose, Marvin and son Brian David. He is survived by
his sister Rita Lang, sister-in-law Barbara “Marvin” Stratton, Son Jeffrey
(Gayle) and daughter Sheri (Al), 16 grandchildren, 46 great grand-children and
15 great, great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews and countless friends.
All his survivors wish to thank and honor Sheri and Al for
their tireless and sacrificial love in caring for Frank all of these years. A reception in Frank’s honor will be held at Goeglein’s
Catering at 7311 Maysville Rd in Fort Wayne on March 15, 2025 from 11 am until
2pm. Please come share a plate of food and a toast with his family. A
Celebration of Life will occur from 2 to 3 pm, please come prepared to share
your favorite Frank story. A private family internment next to his beloved Diana will
occur at a later date. Memorials can be given to your local Alzheimer’s
Association. |
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