Joan E. Stratton's Obituary
Joan E. Stratton, age 94, met her Heavenly Father on Saturday, October 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 3, 1930, to Joseph and Mary (Stupavsky) Soboslay in Detroit, MI. On September 3, 1949, she married the love of her life, Philip Stratton in Detroit. Together they cherished 41 years full of love and laughter. He preceded her in death on July 1, 1990. Following the passing of Philip, Joan made her way to Ravenna, which she has called home for the last 30 years. Joan had a zest for life and lived hers with a purpose of abiding by her faith, family and food. She was a faithful servant of the Lord and a longtime member of St. Catherine’s Catholic Church. Joan always turned to God and trusted in Him in every aspect of her life, which allowed her to truly enjoy the simple things in life. She lived each day with the intention of always taking everything in and never being in a rush, knowing that all things would work out the way they were intended. Joan took the time to listen, ask questions and care for her friends and family. She was also a silent observer when it came to nature, whether she was out for a walk, watching the cardinals or looking for bunnies. She cherished the time spent with her family and friends. Joan loved watching Westerns and Hallmark movies with her kids and grandkids. Those who knew Joan became familiar with her one-of-a-kind lingo. She was known to strap herself into her trusty “pod” (1996 Buick Century) to cruise around town while always keeping an eye out for the “zoids” so she didn’t get a ticket. Joan was unapologetically generous, funny, caring and always made it a point to put others first. She was fiercely independent and never allowed her strong will to falter. She was an amazing mother, doting grandma and great-grandma, wonderful sister and dear friend to so many. Joan will be sorely missed by the many who got to know and love her. She is survived by her two daughters, Suann (Kelly) McCrary and Deborah Stratton; four sons, Gregory (Mary Jane) Stratton, Kurt (Carolyn) Stratton, Brian (Linda) Stratton and Clifford Stratton; 17 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; sister, Marilyn Kornmesser; four brothers, Joseph Soboslay, Eugene (Beverly) Soboslay, Ralph (Tammy) Soboslay and Mickey Soboslay; sister-in-law, Rene Soboslay; and son-in-law, Mark Raymond. She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Philip Stratton; daughter, Mary Raymond; sister, Gloria Soboslay; two brothers, Billy Soboslay and Walter Soboslay; daughter-in-law, Denise Stratton; and sister-in-law, Pat Soboslay. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, October 18, 2024, at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, 12236 Heights Ravenna Rd., Ravenna, MI 49451 with visitation from 10-11:00 AM. A Visitation with the family will be held from 5-7:00 PM on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St., Ravenna, MI 49451. Memorial Contributions in her honor can be directed to St. Catherine’s Catholic Church. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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