Stanley Lewis Stratton

Stanley Lewis Stratton passed away Oct. 20, 2026, at Golden Age Adult Family Home in Moses Lake, Wash., at the age of 92. Surrounded by family in his final days, Stan leaves behind a legacy of hard work, and devotion to his family. 

Stan was born in 1934 in Shelby, Mont., to Archie and Cora Stratton and was the second of four children. He had three sisters: Reva, Betty and Mary Jean. Stan first came to Moses Lake at the age of 18 to work on the Galloway farm for the summer. He remembered his time there fondly.  He worked hard and was treated very well. Little did he know he would one day return to the area to raise his own family and build a life rooted in the community.

In March of 1953 Stan enlisted in the United States Army. He served honorably for three years in the Light Weapons Infantry, reaching the rank of SP4. During his service he earned the Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal (Germany), National Defense Service Medal and Marksmanship Qualification Badge (Rifle). 

Stan married Barbara Warren in 1953 and shared 41 years of marriage, before her passing in 1995. Stan and Barbara moved their family from Montana to Moses Lake in 1962 where he worked for Sears as a dedicated service technician for 33 years. Supporting a family of nine was no small undertaking, but Stan worked tirelessly to provide for his family and give his children the best life he could. 

In his free time, Stan was an avid gardener. Not only did he enjoy the hobby, but it was another way to provide for his family. At the end of each workday, one of the first things he did was head out the back door to check on the garden. He also enjoyed woodworking, making gifts for his family and friends. We can’t even begin to count the number of tissues boxes Stan crafted and gifted over the years.  

Beyond his family, Stan gave generously of his time to his community. He volunteered at the Moses Lake Food Pantry for 20 years, offering years of dedicated service to help others in need.

Stan loved his grandchildren deeply and was immensely proud of each of them. His family was a lasting source of pride and joy throughout his life.

Shortly after his 90th birthday Stan decided it was time to sell his home of 57 years and move into Monroe House Assisted Living. He was very active in his new community, often being the only male to participate in the social activities. This quickly earned him the affectionate nickname of “Stan the Man” among the ladies at the Monroe House. He was also known for his heathy appetite. The staff joked that he had a hollow leg. Once you got to know Stan, you soon realized he had quite a sense of humor, he was a jokester.

Stan will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his generosity and the many ways he showed his love through actions. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. 

Stan is survived by his children Patsy Stratton, Stan Stratton (Denise), Dale Stratton (Rene’), Renae Powell (Robert), David Stratton and Arlene Heitt (Dean); 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Stratton; daughter Betty Stratton; his grandson, Douglas Stratton; his siblings and his parents. 

A special thank you to all the staff at Monroe House. They helped Stan continue to live a full and socially active life. 

Another special thanks to the staff at Golden Age Adult Family Home and Assured Hospice. Their dedication, care and compassion were exactly what Stan and his family needed.

A celebration of life for Stan is planned Nov. 7, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Best Western Plus Waterfront Hotel, located at 3000 W. Marina Drive, Moses Lake. Appetizers and beverages will be provided. Please stop by anytime between 2 and 4 p.m. to visit with his family and share stories and memories of Stan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Moses Lake Food Pantry.

Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.