He was the beloved husband of the late JoAnne (Reiniger) Marmarou, whom he married on October 15, 1965. She preceded him in death in 2020.
Born on March 5, 1933, in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Peter and Mary (Vaparellis) Marmarou.
Stratton was a 1950 graduate of Reading High School and later earned his associate's degree from Reading Area Community College.
A faithful and active member of Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, he served on the church's Parish Council for 30 years and remained devoted to his faith throughout his life.
Stratton was a 50-year-member of the Order of AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association) and a past president of AHEPA Chapter No. 61 in Reading.
Stratton proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.
He began his working career in the bakery and vegetable departments at Mohican Market in Reading and later worked on his father's ice cream truck, "Crystal Ice Cream," the first of its kind in Reading. He went on to serve as Security Director for Pomeroy's Department Store in Reading.
Stratton's longest and most distinguished career was with the Reading Police Department, where he served for 23 years as a police detective before retiring in 1977. During his tenure, he established the department's first juvenile unit. Following retirement, he worked as a special investigator for the Pennsylvania Auditor General's Office.
From 1980 to 2000, Stratton served as Head of Security at Albright College, dedicating 20 years to the institution.
He was the founder and past president of the Reading Police Beneficial Association and served as a trustee for the City of Reading Fraternal Order of Police. Deeply committed to youth and community service, Stratton founded Reading American Little League and was a longtime volunteer and former director of the Police Athletic League (P.A.L.). He also served as former president of the church council at St. Matthew's Greek Church.
Stratton was actively involved in local government, serving as a member of the Reading School Board and as Reading City Councilman for District 4 for three terms (12 years). During his time on council, he oversaw the construction of the 9th and Marion Fire Station and served on the City of Reading Stadium Commission.
An avid sports enthusiast, Stratton umpired baseball and softball in Berks County for 30 years and coached Little League baseball for many seasons.
Above all, Stratton cherished time spent with his family and fondly enjoyed trips with his wife to the Atlantic City casinos.
He is survived by two children: Stephanie Marmarou and Peter Marmarou, both of Reading.
Stratton was the proud "Papou" to his grandson, Anthony, husband of Kelsey (Farmer) Marmarou and their daughter, Eleni Jo Marmarou.
Stratton is also survived by a nephew, Steven, husband of Beth (Raquet) Reiniger and their children, Rachel and David.
He is survived by several other cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Statton was predeceased by his siblings: George, John, Esther Kovras, Evriklia "Eva" Koutalalis, and Christ.
Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12 noon in Sts. Constantine and Helen Church, 1001 E Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611 with a viewing held from 10 am until time of services, in the Church.
Burial will be in Charles Evans Cemetery, Reading.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Church at the above address or to Berks Catholic High School, 955 E. Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611.
Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., Laureldale is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences visit www.StitzelFamilyFuneralHomes.com
