John Harvey Stratton
John Harvey Stratton, 80, died peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2026. He was born in Anderson, Indiana to Dennis and Pearlie Mae (Dodson) Stratton who preceded him in death, along with grandson, Zaen Howard.
He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1964–1968, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He served as a military police officer and was a small-arms expert, earning a marksmanship ribbon. He was also a Vietnam veteran.
John was a graduate of Ball State University and went on to spend 30 years working at General Motors —“Generous Motors,” as he affectionately called it.
John led with humor. He was quick-witted, always had a joke ready, and had a gift for giving people clever nicknames that somehow just stuck. His humor was one of the ways he connected with people and made them feel comfortable and loved.
His love often showed up in the smallest, most thoughtful ways. There might be a little extra cash tucked into your birthday card with instructions to “do whatever you want with it.” He somehow always remembered your favorite candy and would leave his “calling card” behind if he stopped by and you weren’t home. He was a generous tipper, but more than once, he would leave extra money on the table for someone to find later.
He loved a good game of euchre and looked forward to playing every week and watching a classic movie at night. He was nostalgic by nature and loved traditions—the familiar things that brought people together and created memories. And if there was a choice between the quickest way home and the scenic route, John was almost always going to take the scenic route.
A Christian man, he was always willing to stop and say a prayer for someone who needed it. He didn't always have to have the right words; sometimes, simply knowing John was praying for you was enough.
John didn't need a lot of attention to make a lasting impression. He just needed to be John—and that was more than enough.
He will be deeply missed by the family and friends who were fortunate enough to know him, love him, and experience the quiet ways he made their lives a little better.
John is survived by daughter, Cori Stratton (John Howard), daughter, Abbi Ott (Jeff Ott) and son, Neal Stratton; grandchildren, Sloan, Neal Jr., Molly, Phoebe and Cora; his sister, Pat Ellis; along with great grandchildren Aydin and Gemma.
There will be a celebration of life at Rozelle - Johnson Funeral Service (229 S. Rangeline Rd. Anderson, IN) on Saturday, Nov. 14 from 2:00 - 4:00 P.M., with a service immediately following. Memorial contributions may be made to the Veteran Affairs (VA) or American Kidney Fund.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com