William R. Stratton Jr.

William "Bill" Stratton Jr, born on January 20, 1959, in Anniston, Alabama, passed away on September 25, 2025, at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was the beloved son of William and Mary (Willingham) Stratton.

Bill was a graduate of Otsego High School. A dedicated worker, he spent a portion of his professional life working for the City of Kalamazoo. He played an instrumental role in constructing the stone wall at Riverside Cemetery. Most recently, he spent over 20 years at Vaulkners Insulation, formerly Vaulkners Builders, until his early retirement in 2000.

His hobbies reflected his profound love for the outdoors; he found joy in hunting, fishing, and gardening, nurturing his passion for growing vegetables. An artist at heart, Bill enjoyed drawing and tinkering, often immersing himself in collecting and studying his Indian heritage. He enjoyed watching movies, particularly Westerns, which mirrored his adventurous nature.

Above all, Bill treasured time spent with his family. His wife, Donna, whom he affectionately called “Baby Doll,” was his partner in life since their marriage on April 4, 2008. Also surviving are his daughters, Marilyn (Collin) Stratton of Kalamazoo, Darlene (Larry) Crosby of Plainwell, and Holly "Hollywood" (Lavelle) Gilbert of Portage; 10 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; his father; siblings, Deb Stratton, Randall Stratton, and Barb Veldhuis and his niece and nephews, Katie, Brandon, Justin, and James.

He is preceded in death by his mother; brother, Michael; niece, Kimberly Szabo and nephew, Jo Jo Szabo.

Friends may visit with Bill’s family starting at 10:00 A.M., Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego, until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Kevin Guetschow officiating. 

Burial will follow at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego.

Contributions in memory of Bill may be directed to Michigan Turkey Tracks.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.