EAST MILLINOCKET – Francis G. Stratton, 85, passed away at a local health care facility, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2004. He was born June 3, 1919, the son of Martin and Jane (McKnight) Stratton. He was a World War II veteran having served in the Navy from 1943-1946 aboard the USS St. Paul. Being very proud of his service to his country, “Ted” helped commission the ship and was a plank owner. He was also in the National Guard until 1951. Ted was a life member of the DAV, VFW, and he was a member of the American Legion Post No. 13 in East Millinocket. He was a member of the Lion’s Club who put on many events in the town East Millinocket. Ted was also a member of the Sno Rovers Snowmobile Club. At one time, he was a certified projectionist for the local movie theatre in East Millinocket. Ted was a member of the International Electrical Workers Union as well as the Papermakers Union. Above all else, he was a woodsmen and he loved the outdoors. One of his favorite pastimes was going to his hunting camp, thus resulting in his nickname, “Mud brook Moses”. He is survived by his six children, Kenneth G. Stratton and his wife, Mary, of Winthrop, Richard E. Stratton and his wife, Joey, of East Millinocket, Francis D. “Frank” Stratton, and Barbara Bower of East Millinocket, Stephen J. Stratton and his wife, Sheila, of Farmingdale, Jane A. St. John and her husband, Stanley, of Millinocket, Ann F. McVey and her husband, John, of Brewer; 14 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; two sisters, Edith Tibbits and Jean Segee; one brother, Ralph Stratton. Ted had a special relationship with his grandson, Greg Caruso. He was predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Ruby A. Stratton; his brother, Reginald (Buck); and his baby brother, Kenneth. His famous words were, “Keep Smiling.” He will be dearly missed by all of his family and friends. To honor Ted’s request, there will be no funeral services. The public is invited to celebrate his life from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004, at the D.A.V. in Medway. In Ted’s memory, contributions may be made to the Katahdin Area Support Group, 10 Field St., Millinocket, ME 04462. Arrangements by R.L. Bouchard Funeral Home, 11 Tamarack St., Millinocket, ME. For online register book, please visit www.bouchardfh.com
FRANCIS G. STRATTON
