Fred Strattan

In Loving Memory of Fred Stratton Fred Stratton was born on August 4, 1961, in Ohio, and became a lifelong resident of Portage, Indiana. He passed away at the age of 64, just days shy of his 65th birthday. His passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Fred was a man whose warmth came effortlessly, whose laughter filled every room, and whose kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Though he is no longer with us, the love he gave so freely and the memories he created will continue to comfort and inspire his family and friends for years to come. Fred graduated from Portage High School in 1979, where he played baseball and developed a lifelong love of sports. He remained a devoted Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears fan, faithfully cheering on his teams through every season. After graduation, Fred began his career as a truck driver before transitioning into real estate, where he found great fulfillment in helping others achieve the dream of homeownership. Most recently, he worked for a pharmaceutical company delivering medications to patients in need. Regardless of the role, Fred took great pride in serving others and was always willing to go the extra mile, often at any hour. Fred was married to Wanda for many years, during which time he became a steady and loving presence in the lives of her children. He formed especially close bonds with Raymond, Joan Marie, and Glenda, embracing them as his own and sharing in their lives with pride, care, and unconditional love. Beyond his work, Fred embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved snowmobiling, sports, and occasional motorcycle rides. He was known for his infectious smile, quick wit, and easy sense of humor. He truly was the life of the party and had a remarkable gift for making everyone around him feel like a friend. To his younger brother, Bob, Fred was far more than a sibling—he was a mentor, a role model, and a lifelong friend. Growing up, Bob was more than just Fred’s younger brother; the two were best friends who shared countless adventures and created memories that would last a lifetime. Whether they were exploring together, cheering on their favorite teams, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the bond they shared was one of love, loyalty, and friendship. Although life occasionally took them in different directions, their deep love and respect for one another never wavered. Fred also shared an especially close bond with his sister, Janice “Jan” Navardauskas, who meant the world to him. They spoke almost every day, always checking in on one another. Whenever Jan visited Portage, she made it a tradition to stop by Fred’s home to enjoy a cup of coffee, conversation, and laughter. Those simple moments together became some of the family’s most treasured memories. One of the most meaningful expressions of Fred’s devotion to family and tradition came after the passing of his father, Leonard. In a deeply personal tribute, Fred and his brother Bob brought their father’s ashes to a Chicago White Sox World Series game. In a final act of love and remembrance, they scattered his father’s ashes near home plate at the old Comiskey Park, honoring both their father and the game he loved. Although Fred never had children of his own, becoming a father was something he always hoped for. He instead poured his love, guidance, and generous spirit into his family and friends, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Fred is survived by his brother, Bob Stratton and his wife, Candice; his sister, Janice (Jan) Navardauskas; his nieces, Brandy Navardauskas and her husband, Ted, and Mandy Chessor; his nieces and nephews, Briana, Taylor, Aiden, Asia, Gabe, Robbie, and Heather; his cousins, Greg Chandler, John Chandler, Dan Chandler, Terry Gill, Chrissy Gill, and Ralph Gill. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Helen and Leonard Stratton, and his older sister, Kay. Fred will be remembered for his warm heart, generous spirit, unforgettable laugh, and the joy he brought into every room. His memory will live on in the stories shared by loved ones, in every White Sox game watched, every Bears season followed, every snowmobile trail traveled, and every open road that reflects his adventurous spirit. His family finds comfort in knowing that while he is no longer with them in person, he will forever remain in their hearts. Celebration of Life A Celebration of Life for Fred Stratton will be held on Friday, August 28, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Central Time, at the Fireside Room, 2709 Brandt Street, Portage, Indiana. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor Fred, share stories, celebrate his life, and remember the joy, laughter, and friendship he brought to so many. In keeping with Fred’s warm and outgoing spirit, all who knew and loved him are welcome to attend. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. Burns Funeral Home and Crematory entrusted with his arrangements. Please visit www.burnsfuneral.com to sign Fred’s online guestbook.

Fred Strattan

August 4, 1961 - July 27, 2026