SYRACUSE – Jeffrey Robert Stratman, 62, of Syracuse, went to be with the Lord on Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, while at Visiting Nurse Hospice Home in Fort Wayne.
Born on Feb. 25, 1957, to John and Margaret “Motzie” Stratman, he was the second of three children. A graduate of Columbia City Joint High School, Jeff went on to have a successful career in sales. For the past few years, Jeff was employed with Supreme in Goshen and spent time serving libations for thirsty patrons in North Webster at The American Legion and Lucky’s.
Jeff immensely enjoyed spending time with his son, three young grandchildren and daughter-in-law. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, golfing, waterfowl hunting (a founding member of Whitley County Ducks Unlimited), boating, tooling around in his red 1947 Willy’s Jeep and volunteering to support veterans organizations. Anyone who spent much time with him knew how much he loved to grill and cook for others. Many were privileged to try his famous spicy asparagus, homemade Bloody Mary mix, mustard and relish that he canned. Around Thanksgiving and Christmas, Jeff usually deep fried 20+ Cajun turkeys for friends and family.
He is proceeded in death by his father, John Stratman; mother, “Motzie” Stratman; and brother, Jerry Stratman.
He is survived by his son, Aaron (Lindsay) Stratman; grandchildren, Frances, Emerson and Samuel Stratman; sister Beth Ann (Parke Smith) Stratman; and companion, Jerri Harper. He is also survived by Aaron’s mother, Lydia Clapp Stratman, originally of Columbia City.
A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, Nov. 9 at noon at The American Legion Post 253, 756 S. Main St., North Webster. Please come to share memories, a meal and a Bud in remembrance of Jeff and his life.
Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, is handling arrangements.
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Mmemorials to the American Heart/Stroke Association: 1-800-AHA-USA1 or www.heart.org.
