William A. Stratton, age 83, passed away May 1, 2012, at his home in Hidden Valley Airpark, Denton, TX after a battle with Alzheimer Disease. Bill was born near Carnforth, in Poweshiek County, Iowa to George and Gertrude Parks Stratton. A couple of years later the family moved to a farm near Ladora. Bill attended Hartford #5 Country School and graduated from Marengo High School. Bill lived most of his life in Texas. He was a W.W.II Veteran of the U.S. Navy and was a Master Mason for over 40 years. He sailed all over the world as a Merchant Marine Steamship Engineer for 35 years. Bill attained the rating of Chief Engineer on Steam Turbine Electric powered ships. He held FAA private, Instrument, and Commercial licenses to fly single engine aircraft. Bill’s last trip from Texas to Iowa was in his home built aircraft in 2007 to visit family and friends in and around Marengo. He was a life long motorcyclist and his first trip from Iowa to Texas was on a motorcycle.

   He is survived by his wife, Martha Stratton, son William Stratton, Jr. of Allen TX, one brother, Everett Stratton of Jasper, TX, step children Maxie Wilbanks of Panorama City, CA. Marcia Andrews of Port Arthur, TX and seven grandchildren. Proceeding him in death were his parents, daughter Susan, brother Dallas and sister Mary Anne.

   A memorial service will be held Friday, May 25, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Shady Shores Baptist Church in Denton, TX. Burial plans are pending.