With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Thomas Lawrence Stratton, who passed

away peacefully on Monday November 17, 2025, with family by his side.

Tom was born on January 31, 1943 to Lawrence Stratton and Ida (nee Pilkey) Stratton.

Tom lived life to the fullest, always focusing on the bright side. His life was defined by

hard work, service, and music. He began his career at the Dryden Pulp and Paper

Company in 1963, where he was a skilled mechanic and welder. He earned respect of

colleagues and the reputation of someone who could fix anything with steady hands and

a sharp mind. At the end of his career, he became Fire Chief, where his courage and

leadership shone brightly. In 2003, Tom retired from Weyerhaeuser, closing a

remarkable chapter in his life.

He met the love of his life, Fern (nee Scheibler) Stratton in 1962 and they were married

in 1966. He also shared a love of adventure with his wife, Fern and his poodles.

Together they spent many happy days camping and traveling across the country, pulling

their fifth wheel to new destinations. Whether parked by a quiet lake, nestled in the

woods, or meeting fellow travelers along the road, those journeys were filled with

laughter, companionship, and the simple joy of being together. The two of them traveled

to new places across Canada and the United States. The last couple of summers they

spent camping with the Dryden Sunset Campers.

Tom was a gifted musician who played with a variety of bands through his music career.

He first joined the band Rhythm Rascals, where he discovered the joy of performing and

the camaraderie of playing alongside friends. Later, he became a proud member of Ten

Bucks on the Road, sharing his talent with audiences near and far. He also played with

Sound of the Stepps, a group that allowed him to explore new sounds and connect with

fellow musicians who shared his passion. Whether rehearsing with his bandmates or

playing on stage, Tom’s music carried the spirit of fun, connection, and passion that

defined him.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Fern of 59 years, his four legged loyal companion,

Ronan, his sister, Judi Stratton; brother in law, Glenn (Silvia) Scheibler; sister in law,

Robin (Roy) Ziprick; sister in law, Cheryl (Ed Marion) Scheibler; nieces, Deana

(Micheal) Dennis ; Ashley (Karsen) Apland; and Carolyn Stratton, great nieces and

great nephew, Hailey and Bennett Dennis; Tanner, Kira (Hunter Parenteau), and Kristin

Apland; and close friends Pat and Sue. He was preceded by his parents Lawrence and

Ida; brother Bruce Stratton; sister-in-law Carol Stratton; and brother-in-law Bradley

Scheibler.

He left a lasting impression on everyone he met, gone but never forgotten.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 28th, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Dryden Go Getter Senior Centre.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dryden Oncology Department.