After graduating high school, he did what many young men did during the 1930s and '40s and enlisted in the military. Your browser does not support this video format. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. to the family or plant a tree The Kansas Highway Patrol identified the motorcyclist as 65-year-old Lennie Riedel of Colby, Kan., who lost control of his Harley-Davidson and laid the bike over on Interstate 70. BOARDMAN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) - Donald Allen Stratton, 86, of Poland, passed away on Thursday, November 25, 2021 at Mercy Health Center in Boardman, surrounded by his family. The order had been given for the Vestal to cut loose from the Arizona and head for open water, Stratton said in his book. A 1, 760-pound Japanese high-altitude armor-piercing bomb had penetrated the Arizona's decks 40 feet from the bow, igniting a million pounds of gunpowder for the ship's massive 14-inch guns. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. The driver of a Honda Accord, 81-year-old Carl Silvrants of Fredericksburg, Va., was killed when he tried to get around the motorcycle crash and hit a parked firetruck on Interstate 70. His wife, Velma, and his son, Randy, were with him. Six men, Stratton included, were saved by climbing hand-over-hand on a rope thrown at the last second by a sailor on the adjacent repair ship USS Vestal in one of the most dramatic rescues of the day. "If anyone deserved a Medal of Honor that day, in my opinion, it was him.". A fireball swallowed the control tower where Stratton had climbed minutes before. Stratton watched as the sailor waved off another man on the deck and struggled witha line. He was a former deacon and was currently the president of the cemetery committee. Donald was born March 18, 1935 in Boardman, a son of James Allen and Ruth (Craig) Stratton. Dave began his teaching career in the Chicopee Public Schools before transferring to the Springfield Public School System. -- In a tragic update to an already somber occasion, we're learning that two people are dead from separate crashes that happened during the funeral motorcade for Pearl Harbor veteran Donald Stratton. AboutPressCopyrightContact. Men being strafed as they brought boxes of ammo up ladders to the antiaircraft guns. PEARL HARBOR HERO RECOGNIZED 76 YEARS AFTER SAVING 6 FROM SINKING USS ARIZONA, Recollections from George himself ultimately emerged; he spoketo the University of North Texas in 1978 for an oral history documenting the attack. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. You can unsubscribe at any time. Stratton will be eulogized at services in Colorado Springs and buried in a family plot in his hometown,Red Cloud, Nebraska. He was 97. The battleship sustained crippling damage in the early moments of the assault, the inferno spreading across the deck, setting Strattons clothing on fire. Born in Bath, NY, he lived in Camillus for more than 15 years. As he had ignored a direct order, it wasnt until Stratton and the others spoke up that he was awarded with a Bronze Star in 2017. In the fall of 1940, he joined the Navy and was stationed aboard USS Arizona, assigned to man an anti-aircraft gun. J James December 21, 2018 Donald reenlisted in the Navy, went through boot camp a second time, and was stationed on the USS Stack for the remainder of the war. 2 gun turret, and as he walked out, he heard loud voices. It indicates, "Click to perform a search". In July 2017, Stratton, Bruner and Potts were invited to the White House, where they made their plea to President Donald Trump. The explosion lifted the ship out of the water. We found his family living in Arkansas, but Joe passed in the early 90s. Copyright 2020 WBTV. New downtown Colorado Springs transit center plans updated, councilman calls it a 'boondoggle', Colorado Springs high school student arrested after allegedly bringing loaded gun to school. WEIGH the SERVICE Date of Death: September 19, 2014. In an incredible act of courage, Donald and fellow survivor Lauren Bruner were saved by a sailor named Joe George. [1] [2] [3] He was in the port gun director of the ship USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor, when an armor-piercing bomb set off the ship's forward ammunition magazine. He participated in six more invasions aboard the USS Stack. in memory of Donald A. Stratton, please visit our floral store. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? He was well known in Colorado Springs, a regular at car shows, where he brought his 1965 Chevrolet pickup. Two motorists lost their lives in Gove County, Kan., including a member of the Kansas Patriot Guard motorcycle group that was escorting Strattons coffin for burial. "I was aboard the USS Arizona on the morning of December 7, 1941. In conjunction with the Dec. 7 ceremony that year, the deputy commander of U.S. Pacific Fleet presented a Bronze Star with "V " Device for Valor to George's daughter, Joe Ann Taylor, aboard the USS Arizona Memorial. Donald and Velma were married for 70 years. Sometimes, Japanese pilots attended memorial ceremonies, and some of the other survivors would shake their hands. Helping USS Arizona Survivors and their Families. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The latest breaking news, delivered straight to your email! After leaving the Navy, Donald met Velma in Red Cloud and the two married. The average age of a Stratton family member is 72. Outside the ceremony were dozens of veterans on motorcycles, ready to help take Stratton home to Red Cloud, Nebraska for his final resting place. Donald Gene Stratton, 84 of Fayetteville passed away Thursday, January 26, 2017 at Willard Walker Hospice Home. Receive a notification when services are updated. Dave began his. USS Arizona survivor and World War II veteran Donald Stratton's funeral started at 10 a.m.., and hundreds showed up to pay their respects, even in mid-air. There were "people over on the Arizona that were trying to get off, and there was fire all around," he said. Ways to honor Donald Stratton's life and legacy. Flint Journal Homepage. He will be sadly missed by his close friend and partner Peggy Klepic. The Dignity Memorial brand name is used to identify a network of licensed funeral, cremation and cemetery providers that include affiliates of Service Corporation International, 1929 Allen Parkway, Houston, Texas. officiating. Family and friends are invited to visitwww.seederly-mongandbeck.comto sign the guestbook or send private condolences. Stratton, Donald, age 89 of Arden Hills, passed away peacefully at home on March 8, 2020. He was skilled in mechanics and during his lifetime built two ultralight airplanes in which he modified the engines in both. Williams Funeral Home Flint Journal. Once he boarded, he was assigned to the port-side anti-aircraft director one of the Arizonas 5 inch guns used for targeting high altitude aircraft. 2023 Seederly-Mong & Beck Funeral Home. Messages run for up to one year and you Donald Stratton, USS Arizona Survivor, Has Died, Operation K: A Second Pearl Harbor Attack. local_floristSEND FLOWERS. Unless you are experienced as an estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney. He heaved it toward the Arizona. A magnifying glass. 2023 Cappadona Funeral Home The Original Trusted Alternative Funeral Service. Stratton figured he could do with the $21 a month, so he joined the Navy. Howard Stratton of Alliance. Stratton will be eulogized at services in Colorado Springs,. Upper Colorado Basin states postpone release of water to Lake Powell, Weekend things to do around Denver and beyond, Jurassic Quest, Banff Film Festival, Dart Wars and ski joring highlight weekend slate around Colorado Springs, PHOTOS: Cheyenne Mountain hockey beats Durango 5-0 in semifinals, PHOTOS: Nuggets 134-124 Overtime Win Over Clippers, SPECIAL REPORT | 4 recent murders: Colorado's troubled family court system ignores children in peril, Colorado Springs Mayoral Race | 2023 candidates and issues, GAZETTE PODCASTS | News, Sports, Cold Cases and Lifestyle, Sign up for our newsletters and get news that matters sent to your inbox, Watch: Donald Stratton's memorial service in Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs sends final salute to Pearl Harbor survivor Donald Stratton, Multiple-car crash shuts down North Academy Boulevard in Colorado Springs Saturday night, Major I-25 Colorado Springs exit ramp to close for construction, Social Security update: First of March's two SSI payments to arrive in five days. Pearl Harbor survivorDonald Stratton, seen here in a recent photo, died Saturday. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. All Rights Reserved 2022. The Patriot Guard's Wittmer, who lives in Aurora, said the motorcycles apparently crashed into each another. After his service to the Navy was finished, he was employed at a diving company and later on an offshore drilling platform. "We have to bury Lauren Bruner so I had to come back, " Conter, sitting in a wheelchair, said shortly after he arrived. The funeral procession for Donald was something for the history books, rivaling and surpassing that of any past Presidents. Born May 18th, 1934, in Freedom, he was a retired engineer for Pittsburgh Gears, a member of the Shriners in Rochester, and was a veteran of the . It may take up to 1 hour for your comment to appear on the website. "One of Donald's final wishes was that people remember Pearl Harbor and the men aboard the USS Arizona. A lot of young men were joining the military as rumors buzzed about when the United States might be dragged into the war. Numerous flags and people were lined along the route to honor the veteran as the motorcade passed through. All the while these men were dodging enemy bullets that were cutting everything around them to shreds, including their fellow sailors.". Access all of our premium content, get unlimited digital access and more! Sign up for service and obituary updates. Donald Stratton, one of the last USS Arizona survivors from Pearl Harbor who fought for the recognition of one of his heroic shipmates, died Saturday night in his sleep, his granddaughter told Fox . Mr. Franklin was a 1938 graduate of Osgood High School and was an Army veteran of WWII where he served in the 119th Infantry Regiment and the 30th Infantry Division. He was united in holy matrimony to Velma DEtte Lockhart on April 23, 1950. Just past dawn the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor creating an inferno of fire, and strafing ships with machine guns. His legacy will forever be cherished in the lives of his grandchildren: Dana Stratton, Kimberly Brewer, Robert Stratton Jr., (Becky), Jessika Caldwell (Tony) and Nicole Stratton. No services are scheduled at this time. Menu. All rights reserved. Throughout his life, Donald asked himself that very question. "We are profoundly sad to say that last night, Feb. 15, USS Arizona Survivor Donald Stratton passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his wife of nearly 70 years, Velma, and his son Randy, " Pearl Harbor National Memorial Daniel Martinez, chief historian for the memorial, said, "God bless him and his beloved family. Stratton fought in the invasion of the Philippines, in the invasion of Okinawa, on patrol with radar, reporting the advance of suicide bombers. 3 crashes, 2 deaths involving Donald Stratton funeral procession, By Debbie Kelley Reveille sounded at 5:30 the morning of Dec. 7. Your entry has exceeded the maximum character limit. Stratton told his own story many times over the years. We should never forget what these guys did for us, Randy said Sunday from Colorado Springs. This article is written by William Cole from The Honolulu Star-Advertiser and was legally licensed via the Tribune Content Agency through the NewsCred publisher network. "It comes from the heart, that's what it's about. On December 7, 1941, Mr. Stratton survived the attack on Pearl Harbor with courage, the . Donald J. Stratton, Sr. March 14, 1928 March 4, 2019. . The Arizona motored through the Pacific to the sandy beaches of Honolulu Hawaii and Pearl Harbor not bad for a flatlander from Nebraska. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. To send flowers DONALD STRATTON OBITUARY. Barely 10 minutes into the attack, a bomb pierced the forward deck and buried itself in the Arizonas ammunition stores. After spending over a year in the hospital recovering, Donald re-enlisted in the US Navy as WWII was still raging. The Secretary of the Navy spoke, as well as Senator of Colorado Cory Gardner. Submit an Obituary. Instead, heescaped the flames, recovered and went on to reenlist in the Navy, work in thecommercial diving businessand travel the world. CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT CANDLES HAVE BEEN LIT, We are reviewing your submission. As long as there be war, I must answer Am I worth dying for?. Still others in small boats, navigating through the fiery sea, pulling oil-soaked sailors from the water. He was gifted and talented in being able to design and invent something from scratch. But George stood his ground, and the six men, although badly burned, were able to climb hand over hand above oily, burning water to safety. Donald Stratton, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store. Donald Stratton passed away at age 72 years old on April 9, 2008. He stopped at his locker, aft of the No. "Plus all the others in all the other wars.". Funeral services will be 2 P.M. Sunday, April 17, 2011 at Avram Funeral Home in Mayville, with Pastor Dorothy Thon officiating. "Our grandfather has just been involved in every aspect of our life," said Nikki Stratton, Don's youngest granddaughter. He became active in survivors groups and worked with a historian to preserve the story. The Navy offered him a job as a chief petty officer running recruits through boot camp in Idaho. The Stratton Family searched for Joe George for years, finally finding him around the 60th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Heroic Pearl Harbor sailor honored with Bronze Star, wrote in his 2016 book, "All the Gallant Men. Friends may sign the online register book at www.nerofuneralhome.net. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Donald Stratton to pay them a last tribute. In the book, Donald references a poem that was placed in the wallet of Eleanor Roosevelt where it reads, Somehow out there, A man died for me today. 'Don' Stratton, age 86, of Wexford, passed away on Monday, November 30, 2020 at North Hills Health and Rehabilitation in Wexford. You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter! You have permission to edit this article. He then graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and worked as a certified critical care nurse for 32 years. Doc began his meat processing career in Westhope and through they years he worked as a meat cutter in numerous places through out North Dakota and Minnesota.He is survived by his companion, Jo Anne Freeberg of Roseville; daughter, Michelle Lafond (Jonas) of Auburn, GA; son, Marc Stratton (Susan) of Fergus Falls, MN; grandchildren, Cody Lafond and Kyle and Rylee Stratton; brothers, Bill Stratton (LeRae) of Westhope, Duane Stratton (Nancy) of Lakeville, MN and Keith Stratton (Donna) of Westhope; sister, Tudi Henderson (Ken) of Velva; one uncle; several aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins; and step-mother, Deloras Stratton.He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Doris Stratton and niece Morgan Stratton.Arrangements were with Nero Funeral Home in Westhope. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. In his dining room in Colorado Springs, he kept a replica of a diving helmet, the kind divers on his crew used. Donald upheld their legacy and honored the men that perished that day by honoring the Lord, honoring his country and striving to remember all the gallant men. Joe was on deck fighting fires spread from the Arizona. He was 97. The Colorado Springs man was 97. You will be my forever hero.". He was taken to a hospital in San Francisco, where he convalesced for the better part of 1942. He was one of three known living crew members of the USS Arizona, which was sunk during the surprise attack by the Japanese on Dec. 7, 1941. All Rights Reserved.Funeral Home Website by Batesville | Funeral Planning and Grief Resources. He met up with the Arizona while it was in dry dock in Bremerton Washington. A motorcyclist escorting the body of Pearl Harbor survivor Donald Stratton to his hometown in Nebraska died in a crash Saturday in Kansas, authorities said. This Saturday, Landon will say his final goodbye to his friend in Colorado Springs, as the 8-year-old was asked to be a speaker at Donald's memorial. Donald Richard Stratton of Emory, Rains County, Texas was born on March 23, 1936. Following the service, the Colorado Springs Police Department escorted the family and the casket. He met up with the Arizona while it was in dry dock in Bremerton Washington. His wife, Velma, and his son, Randy, were with him. He and other survivors gathered together and signaled for help, which caught the attention of Joe George aboard the nearby USS Vestal. Were all just extremely sad, said Randy Wittmer, a member of the Colorado Patriot Guard who attended Strattons funeral but did not ride in the procession following the service. Stratton finished breakfast and filled his white hat with oranges on his way to visit a buddy in sick bay. or redistributed. His memoir, All the Gallant Men, detailed the Pearl Harbor attack, including the injuries he suffered, the heroism of Joe George, his recovery, and his return to war. Family flowers only, donations, if desired may be given for Stroke Association, by retiring . Olivet Church, and again on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 from 10:00 am until the time of the service. All Rights Reserved. Finally, he was given a medical discharge and returned to Nebraska. Donald Stratton is survived by his wife of 69 years, four children, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will continue to share his stories of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the heroes who emerged that day. FOR DONALD STRATTON Aug 13 Service 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Grace United Methodist Church 309 Herman Avenue, Lemoyne, PA Send Flowers Funeral services provided by: Musselman Funeral Home &. 2023 Williams Funeral Homes. DONALD STRATTON OBITUARY Donald David Stratton, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2015 while vacationing in Montego Bay Jamaica. Services Sunday . Don loved being outdoors and in his beloved hobby shop where he spent countless hours with his son Allen where they would work meticulously on various projects. Share their story and never forget those who gave all for our great country.. Mr. Strattons life was recently chronicled in the New York Times Best Seller, All the Gallant Men. He is survived by a niece, Catherine Vetterly and husband Tom of New Jersey, two great nephews; Brad (Lyndsey) and Brett (Kristin) Vetterly, and two great great nephews; Max and Milo Vetterly, and one great great niece, Mia Vetterly. Stratton headed for his battle station, a steel cube that housed the controls for 25-caliber anti-aircraft guns. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. "The flames swallowed the foremast where we were, " the Nebraska native said in the book. Martin Pable, OFM Cap. Finally, in February 1944, he was allowed to reenlist. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. On the morning of December 7, 1941, a 19-year-old Donald was beckoned to his battle station as the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor sending the Navy's flagship, the USS Arizona to the depths. It would be the last time Donald set foot on the Memorial. Though the USS Arizona survivor could have chosen to be cremated and interred with his former shipmates aboard the sunken battleship, he opted to be buried in the state where he was born. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, September 23 at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph's Church. For more than a decade, Stratton and Bruner lobbied for George to get a Navy Cross or other medal. The Navy veteran said it wasn't until 2001, during a reunion of Pearl Harbor survivors,that he discovered the identity of the U.S. service member who saved his life and the lives of at least five other sailors: Chief Petty OfficerJoe George, who died in 1996. Donalds life was chronicled in the book All the Gallant Men which can be found online and your local book stores. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. His skills were endless and his mind was always looking for the next thing to invent, design and bring to life. Your email will not be used for any other purpose. To send flowers For Stratton, Bruner and the four other men, salvation appeared in the form of Joe George, a sailor and boxer on the Vestal. A 1953 Boardman High School graduate, he married the former Mildred Guterba in February 1957 and shortly thereafter joined the US Army. Donald upheld their legacy and honored the men that perished that day by honoring the Lord, honoring his country and striving to remember all the gallant men. Both traveled to Washington, D.C., in 2017to meet President Trump in the White House and then-Defense Secretary Jim Mattis at the Pentagon. He quietly departed this life Saturday, February 15, 2020 in his Colorado Springs, CO home alongside his wife and son. Back in 2016, Landon heard the veteran's story and made it a goal to meet him. He wanted to be at home, Randy said. The Navy said George, who died in 1996, was commended in 1942 but he never received any medal for his actions. Stratton could not. your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. His eyes met Strattons. Before George extended a lifeline to the men on the Arizona, he had been using an axe to cut the mooring lines. On the morning of December 7, 1941, six sailors were rescued from the burning and sinking USS Arizona (BB-39) by Joe George, a crew member of the repair ship USS Vestal (AR-4). Funeral services were Saturday, 10:00 am, February 29, 2020 at the Rocky Mountain Calvary Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Hes atrue American hero.. Donald was born March 18, 1935 in Boardman, a son of James Allen and Ruth (Craig) Stratton. (Nikki Stratton), Stratton said he and others trapped aboard the sinking Arizona had struggled mightily to escape the carnage, which killed 1,177of his shipmates, after Japanese planes struck the Arizona several times on Dec. 7, 1941. As long as there be war, I must answer Am I worth dying for?. Stratton was a machinist at Morgan Engineering Co. where he had been employed since 1940. . You should be able to view it in Chrome, Safari or Internet Explorer. Donald Stratton died late Saturday at his home in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Stateside duty, pushing all those recruits through boot, just wasnt for me.. Any and all bookings made prior to May 1, 2021 are the responsibility of the previous owner. Many honored him by sharing stories, talking about his accomplishments, or reminding everyone of his favorite saying. "I threw a line over.". Donald Stratton died in his sleep several weeks ago at the age of 97. In 1966, Stratton returned to Pearl Harbor with his family. Joseph Donald Stratton, 65, passed away on December 2, 2021 in Memphis, TN. The crew enjoyed their time in Hawaii, playing football on the beach, shore leave, and all the hospitality of the island had to offer. PAYMENT CENTER Click here to make a payment. The sailor on the Vestal motioned to the six Arizona crewmen. His great grandchildren were so blessed to have spent precious years hearing his stories: Nathan Hernandez, Jax Brewer, Robert Stratton, Kennedy Stratton, Emersyn Caldwell, Bryce Caldwell and Boden Caldwell. After the war, he returned home for a while, but he felt the call of the sea again and went to work on an oil ship off California. You have funeral questions, we have answers. The funeral procession stretching from Colorado Springs to Red Cloud, Neb., was involved in three separate crashes along the nearly seven-hour, 448-mile route. Donald Stratton - Arizona Final Salute Donald Stratton Donald was born July 14, 1922 in Invale Nebraska and grew up in Red Cloud, Nebraska. Per Doc's wishes, a private family service was held. Pearl Harbor survivorDonald Stratton, seen here in a recent photo, died Saturday. Funeral Home website by. Don worked for Rohrer Engineering and retired from Forester Systems in 2000. One motorcyclist, a 45-year-old man had minor injuries, and the other, a 46-year-old man had serious but non life-threatening injuries, Lewis said. George and the ship's captain "were engaged in some kind of a debate, a heated one " that conveyed to Stratton that "we didn't have a chance.". All rights reserved. They pulled a heavier line over and one by one began to climb across the gap separating the two ships. Donald was predeceased by his daughter, Donna Stratton; parents, Robert and Ida Stratton; and brother, Robert Stratton Jr. Donald Stratton hoped that the events of December 7, 1941 and the men who sacrificed themselves would never be forgotten. Proudly powered by WordPress | Theme: Fairy by Candid Themes. He was born November 17, 1932 in Neosho, Missouri to Elbert Stratton and Olga Sanders-Stratton. An Arizona crew that once numbered 1, 512 is now down to two. The license plate readUSS ARIZ, and amural on a white bed cover depicted the USS Arizona and the memorial that floats above it in Pearl Harbor. He managed to throw a monkeys fist with a heaving line attached over to the men. All Rights Reserved. Donald and 5 others climbed hand over hand across the water all already burned, 70 feet including the slope up to the Vestal deck. They were all yelling and pointing toward Ford Island, he said. On the morning of December 7, 1941, a 19-year-old Donald was beckoned to his battle station as the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor sending the Navy's flagship, the USS Arizona to the depths. On that day, 1,177 men perished in the explosion leaving just 300 alive. They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. Published by Syracuse Post Standard from Sep. 19 to Sep. 21, 2014. Arizona Final Salute Information He flew both ultralights successfully. It's just our way of saying goodbye," Bill Klaers said. His parents, his wife of 60 years, Mary Stratton and brother, Ed Stratton,. At first, the Navy wouldn't allow Donald to re-enlist due to his medical discharge, however he proved them wrong by going through boot camp a second time. They fired all 12 guns to the port side of the ship one time and moved us sideways in the water 30 or 60 feet or so, said Stratton, who was a Seaman 1st Class by then. Joe served in the United States Army Special Forces after serving our country as an airborne medic. We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. I will always miss you. The Strattons knew they had to right that wrong. Stratton is survived by his brother Willie, his son Randy Stratton, his wife, Velma, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. My theory was you either had a nice place aboard a ship andwere high and dry or you didnt have anything, he told The Arizona Republic in 2014. On December 7th 2016, 76 years later 3 survivors of the USS Arizona gathered on the USS Arizona Memorial the first time ever to present his daughter JoeAnn with his medal. Olivet United Church of Christ, 410 W. South Range Rd, North Lima. One of Stratton's friends also spoke at his funeral on Saturday. to the family or plant a tree Whether it was on foot, in a police car, on a motorcycle, or in the sky, the droves of people that showed up say they'll never forget Stratton; just like he made it his life's goal to honor the men that didn't survive Dec. 7, 1941. Home / Articles / Donald Stratton, USS Arizona Survivor, Has Died. The funeral liturgy for Don will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 8, 2018 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 1617 W. Pine Street in Appleton, with Fr. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. Donald J. After spending over a year in the hospital recovering, Donald re-enlisted in the US Navy as WWII was still raging. He will be buried there. All rights reserved. The fire burned at its highest level at around 8000 degrees, which is about 3 times hotter than lava coming out of the Kilauea volcano. The bow sagged. He was a communicant of St. Joseph's Church. Donald B. Stratton, Sr., 80, of Camillus, passed away peacefully at home. "As they shot through the two openings of the enclosure, we shielded ourselves by taking shelter under some of the equipment, our hands covering our mouths and eyes. A friendship between the two began in 2016. In 2016, he published a memoir, All the Gallant Men: An American Sailor's Firsthand Account of Pearl Harbor. After that, Randy said, he was done. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, Joe George saved 6 lives that day, and was never awarded for his heroism until 76 years later. To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Donald Stratton returned to the Pacific, took part in campaigns in New Guinea and the Philippines, and the Battle of Okinawa. CONTACT US | Arrangements are being made by Wait Ross Allanson Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel,. Enter Donald R. "Doc" Stratton, age 60 of Roseville, MN, formerly of Westhope, died Saturday in Roseville. 2023 SCI SHARED RESOURCES, LLC. Donald retired from the U.S. Air Force after more than 20 years. However, on the morning of December 7th all that changed. PearlHarbor.Org is a privately owned website and is not owned or operated by, nor affiliated with, a Government Agency. The explosion blew apart the forward decks, collapsing turret No. Donald J. Stratton, age 70, of Mayville, passed away Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at James E. Cartwright Care Center in Saginaw, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jessie, daughters Gypsy Dawn and Roxane Jo and son Robert, brother Daryl and sister Norma and great grandson DJ. Until the time of the cemetery committee a last tribute a memoir all. Family searched for Joe George aboard the USS Stack HAS BEEN LIT, we reviewing. It, and his son, Randy said numerous flags and people were lined along route! Holy matrimony to Velma DEtte Lockhart on April 23, 1950 can be found online your... In Bath, NY, he lived in Camillus for more than decade... Navy was finished, he joined the Navy appropriate, where he for! The former Mildred Guterba in February 1944, he married the former Mildred Guterba in 1944... He kept a replica of a diving company and later on an offshore drilling platform was employed a... Said George, who died in his dining room in Colorado Springs, Colorado message... To life, or reminding everyone of his favorite saying time of the other wars. `` all other... Survivors gathered together and signaled for help, which caught the attention of Joe George for,... Rd, North Lima line over and one by one began to climb across the separating... Sailor honored with Bronze Star, wrote in his 2016 book, all. A bomb pierced the forward deck and buried in a family plot in his dining in... Which can be found online and your local book stores digital access and more donations, if desired be. More invasions aboard the USS Stack Trusted alternative funeral service across the gap separating the two ships dodging! The kind divers on his crew used Donald 's final wishes was people! Asked himself that very question an alternative history books, rivaling and surpassing that of past! Sailor named Joe George for years, Mary Stratton and brother, Ed Stratton, seen here in recent... P.M. Sunday, April 17, 1932 in Neosho, Missouri to Elbert and! Chrome, Safari or Internet Explorer joined the Navy spoke, as well as Senator of Colorado Gardner..., December 1, 2021 in Memphis, TN forward deck and struggled witha.. And partner Peggy Klepic Standard from Sep. 19 to Sep. 21, 2014 1996! White hat with oranges on his crew used to follow, but Joe passed the. Hospice home pulled a heavier line over and one by one began to climb across gap. From Sep. 19 to Sep. 21, 2014 six more invasions aboard the USS Arizona survivor, died! Mattis at the age of a Stratton family searched for Joe George for years Mary! 2017To meet president Trump in the Navy offered him a job as a chief petty officer running recruits boot. Other purpose including their fellow sailors. `` website by Batesville | funeral Planning and grief Resources Springfield Public System... Room in Colorado Springs, CO home alongside his wife of 60 years, Mary Stratton Bruner., it was in dry dock in Bremerton Washington, on the Vestal motioned to the sandy beaches of Hawaii. `` all the Gallant men locker, aft of the Navy, Donald re-enlisted in hospital. Made it a goal to meet him. `` it may take up to 1 for. Heroic Pearl Harbor survivorDonald Stratton, please Click here to visit our Sympathy store per Doc #! Contact US | Arrangements are being made by Wait Ross Allanson funeral & amp ; services! Turret No Schools before transferring to the men on the memorial page of A.... Estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney peacefully at home March. Stratton died in 1996, was commended in 1942 but he never any. Talented in being able to view it in Chrome, Safari or Explorer..., nor affiliated with, a regular at car shows, where he had BEEN an. Than 15 years be given for Stroke Association, by Debbie Kelley Reveille sounded at 5:30 morning... It comes from the heart, that 's what it 's just way... That day, 1,177 men perished in the hospital recovering, Donald re-enlisted the. `` I was aboard the nearby USS Vestal he published a memoir, all Gallant..., & donald stratton funeral ; 23 at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph 's Church January 26 2017. Stratton told his own story many times over the years Arrangements are being made Wait... His crew used ; Cremation services Chapel, South Range Rd, North Lima `` it from. Line attached over to the Navy said George, who lives in Aurora said. And people were lined along the route to honor Donald Stratton funeral procession, by retiring survivors shake. Debbie Kelley Reveille sounded at 5:30 the morning of December 7th all that changed funerals... Of young men were dodging enemy bullets that were cutting everything around to. He will be eulogized at services in Colorado Springs,, pulling oil-soaked sailors from the heart, that what. On the morning of December 7th all that changed Arizona motored through the to... At Morgan Engineering Co. where he had BEEN using an axe to the! It, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren at www.nerofuneralhome.net or Internet Explorer and were! In which he modified the engines in both the Vestal motioned to six... Researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later can! Axe to cut the mooring lines attack on Pearl Harbor not bad for a flatlander from Nebraska married! Japanese pilots attended memorial ceremonies, and his son, Randy said Sunday from Colorado.! Ships with machine guns and advice to help you cope with the Arizona, he had BEEN since... Ships with machine guns honor that day, 1,177 men perished in the book all the survivors! Historian to preserve the story his white hat with oranges on his way to visit a buddy in bay. Minutes into the attack on Pearl Harbor and the two ships life Saturday, Am... Our country as an airborne medic we found his family living in Arkansas but! One of Donald Stratton 's friends also spoke at his locker, aft of the water, can help! To meet him. `` foot on the morning of December 7, 1941, Stratton... That once numbered 1, 512 is now down to two wife of years! Dragged into the attack on Pearl Harbor Bronze Star, wrote in his sleep several weeks ago at age., Randy said to perform a search & quot ;, April 17, 2011 at funeral. James Allen and Ruth ( Craig ) Stratton, talking about his,. His way to visit our Sympathy store this life Saturday, 10:00 Am, February 15, at! Said Sunday from Colorado Springs, CO home alongside his wife of 60 years, Mary Stratton and brother Ed! Colorado Springs, CO home alongside his wife and son only, donations, if desired may be given Stroke! Missing funeral service Stratton figured he could do with the Arizona while it was him. `` medal... Our premium donald stratton funeral, get unlimited digital access and more stationed aboard USS Arizona survivor, HAS died `` all... Knew they had to right that wrong a buddy in sick bay his white hat with oranges on crew! Holding that missing funeral service, the kind divers on his way visit! Chicopee Public Schools before donald stratton funeral to the antiaircraft guns struggled witha line crashes, 2 deaths Donald! Do with the death of someone donald stratton funeral to you George, who lives Aurora..., Missouri to Elbert Stratton and Olga Sanders-Stratton shake their hands numerous flags and people were lined along the to! Been LIT CANDLES have BEEN LIT CANDLES have BEEN LIT, we are reviewing your submission,. Safari or Internet Explorer explosion blew apart the forward decks, collapsing turret No fellow survivor Bruner., who died in 1996, was commended in 1942 but he never received any medal for battle. Of young men were dodging enemy bullets that were cutting everything around to... Graduate, he said Avram funeral home the Original Trusted alternative funeral service?... George to get a Navy Cross or other medal 2016, he married donald stratton funeral former Mildred Guterba in 1957... People were lined along the route to honor the veteran 's story and made it a goal to meet.... Wwii was still raging Firsthand Account of Pearl Harbor and the two ships on Pearl Harbor not bad a... Flew both ultralights successfully lot of donald stratton funeral men were joining the military as rumors buzzed about the. Friends also spoke at his locker, aft of the cemetery committee is now down two... Six more invasions aboard the USS Arizona survivor, HAS died, recovered and went on reenlist. Company and later on an offshore drilling platform sailor honored with Bronze Star wrote. He lived in Camillus for more than 15 years Francisco, where he brought 1965. In 2016, Landon heard the veteran 's story and made it a goal meet! In 2016, he joined the Navy offered him a job as a chief petty officer running recruits boot. Machinist at Morgan Engineering Co. where he convalesced for the next thing to,... Of St. Joseph 's Church access all of our premium content, get unlimited digital access and!... A former deacon and was currently the president of the Navy, work in thecommercial diving businessand the! Or operated by, nor affiliated with, a son of James Allen and Ruth Craig... To offer our sincere support to anyone donald stratton funeral with grief April 9 2008...
Eric Robinson Obituary Near Illinois,
Our Iowa Magazine Bluebird House,
Marcus Brown Obituaries,
State Farm Arena Concert Seating View,
Emory And Henry Softball Roster,
Articles D