Michael Kaywood Stratton

He was born on June 28th, 1930 in Warrensburg, MO. His parents, William and Maude (Surbaugh) Stratton preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death was his wife Joan (Hindmarsh). He had 3 brothers William, Allen, and Charles and 6 sisters Geraldine, Georgia, Lydia, Lena, Maudress, and Janice, all of whom preceded him in death.

Mike is survived by 3 children: James and wife Leslie Stratton of Richmond, VA; Thomas and wife Diane Stratton of Orting, WA; and Diane Stratton and friend Vincent Reynolds of Frederick, MD. Also surviving him are 4 grandchildren: Deborah, Sarah, Matthew, and Sidney.

Mike graduated from the University of Missouri in 1953 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. In college, he was a member of two undergraduate honor societies: Pi Tau Sigma and Tau Theta Pi. He moved to Peoria to work for Caterpillar right after graduation. On one of many ski trips to Colorado, Mike met Joan and the two were married in October 1960. While at Caterpillar, Mike worked in both research and in the engine division, and was active in the Society of Automotive Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. While in research, he was granted several patents for his work in engine design.

Mike also served 2 years in the United States Army Ordinance Corps at the Aberdeen, MD proving ground.

Away from work, Mike was active in raising his three children, and volunteered for organizations such as Little League baseball and Boy Scouts. He himself attained the rank of Eagle Scout. Mike also greatly enjoyed annual family vacations to the western US and Stratton family reunions. On the side, he operated a workshop in his basement and created many beautiful pieces of furniture.

Mike retired from Caterpillar in 1992 after 39 years. In retirement, he and Joan enjoyed travelling across the country and spending time with their grandchildren. For many years, Mike rode his bike and shared breakfast with other Caterpillar retirees. Mike was also active in Habitat for Humanity, working on several houses in the Peoria area.

Cremation will be accorded and an inurnment will be at Parkview Cemetery. Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to either Habitat for Humanity or St. Jude Midwest Affiliate. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.davison-fulton.com.