Ronald A. Stratton

Ronald A. Stratton, age 72, of Red Lion, PA passed away on June 29, 2012 at Madonna Heritage Assisted Living Home in Jarrettsville, MD after a long illness. Born in Detroit, MI, he was the son of the late Alfred Stratton and Iris Holden Seleska. He began his 38 year career in broadcasting at the age of 17 as a cameraman. Starting in 1965, he worked for 14 years at WBEC Radio in Pittsfield, MA beginning in the news department where he was known for opening his programs with, "Good morning, good morning, Ron Stratton reporting." Later, his career took him to numerous cities including Baltimore, MD where he was general manager of WITH-Baltimore and WWIN-Baltimore in the 1980's.

During his time in Pittsfield, Mr. Stratton headed many groups including the United Community Services fund drive, the Berkshire County Red Cross, the Council on Aging, and the Redevelopment Authority. An active genealogist, he was the founding president of the Berkshire Genealogical Society and later president of the national Federation of Genealogical Societies. His knowledge of the topic earned him a guest appearance on The Today Show in 1977.

After retiring from radio, Mr. Stratton became a Mason and was active with the Elizabethtown, PA Rotary Club where he successfully revitalized the annual Christmas tree fundraiser. He also wrote a 118 page history of the club, was active on the board, and was named a Paul Harris Fellow. A lifelong fan of classical and other music, he enjoyed playing the accordion and organ.

Mr. Stratton is survived by his wife of 50 years, Shirley Stratton of Red Lion, PA; daughters Julie Stratton of Abingdon, MD, Cathy Stratton of Forest Hill, MD and Barbara Stratton and her partner Cindy Grim of Baltimore, MD; brother Dennis Stratton and his wife Pat of Kansas City, KS; nieces Terra and Pilar; nephew Woody; stepmother Pat Stratton of Traverse City, MI; and "Pop Pop" to Crystal, Jessica, Sean, Ana, Charlie, Ridgeway and two great granddaughters.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made to the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, 3544 North Progress Ave, Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110 717-651-5020.