Kenneth Stratton, of Naples Fla., formerly of Elmhurst, passed away on Jan. 30, 2023 just three days after his 71st birthday. He was born in Chicago on Jan. 27, 1952 to William and Dorothy (Jones) Stratton. Kenneth graduated from Proviso East High School and went on to serve honorably in the U.S. Army. He raised his family in Elmhurst, where he was a soccer coach for many years. Kenny spent his career in manufacturing sales before semi-retiring to Naples, Florida, where he worked for a local nonprofit organization.
Kenny was a proud father of William Stratton (Brian Coffin) and Bethany Stratton (Dustin Perkins). He was a loving godfather of both Brian Stratton and the late Craig Tonkinson, an adoring uncle to dozens of other nieces and nephews and former husband to Linda (Eckert) Donahue.
Kenny was pre-deceased by his siblings Robert (Patti), Terrence (Don) and Janet (late Alan) Filip. He is survived by his sisters, Joan (late Ron) Tonkinson and Cathy (Jim) Soliz as well as his brother Timothy (Helen).
A lifelong Blackhawks fan and former beer-league player himself, Kenny’s passion for hockey was only outmatched by his love of the open water. When not helping others, he could be found enjoying (or fixing) one of several boats that passed through his hands over the years. With a personality as big as his heart, Kenny was a legend who proved that not all who wander are lost and a man who never just said, “Bye” but always said, “Bye for now.”
Kenny passed peacefully in Janesville, Wisc., surrounded by his family. A Mass of Christian burial will take place this spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NAMI of Collier County at 3050 Horseshoe Dr. N., Suite 168, Naples, FL, 34104. Arrangements provided by Legacy by Memoriams.
