David B. Stratton

February 19, 1948 - July 24, 2020

David was born in Los Angeles, CA to parents Frank & Dorothy Stratton and grew up with brother Steven and sisters Judy & Teri. He attended Westchester High School. David served in the US Army as a Combat Engineer from 1967-1969; He was wounded in combat on May 12th, 1969 & was awarded two Purple Hearts, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, & the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Upon returning home from Vietnam, he fell in love and married his beautiful wife of 49 years, Judy, and they had a son Matthew. David accepted Jesus Christ into his heart at a young age. At times growing up, he had very few worldly possessions but was always rich in his faith in Christ. Later in his life, he and his wife were baptized at the Lucerne Valley Community Church, where David served on the worship team for over 10 years. He had both a very creative and analytical mind. He was a very talented harmonicist (which he played in church) & guitar player. David also had many hobbies such as: reading, studying history, Lionel trains, model ships + cars, stamps, and coins. He shared many of his passions with his family as well. David was a tremendous baseball & football player in his youth and loved to play catch with his son Matthew every day after work. He loved to watch the Los Angeles Rams play on Sunday and never passed up on watching any game with his son and grandsons. He and his wife Judy loved to buy and sell at collectible shows. David also shared a love of the Wizard of Oz with his daughter-in-law Amy. A man who lived a life of service, David always gave to others, especially those who had less. He served his country, his family, and his church. He believed that a man’s word was his bond and he taught his son and grandsons to live with that integrity. He was a quick witted, hilarious man who brought a smile to everyone’s face and a laugh along with it. In his final days he was comforted by knowing that he would soon be in heaven, waiting for his family there. David is survived by his wife Judy, son Matthew, daughter-In-law Amy, and grandsons Eric and Daniel. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:1-6 I'm Free Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free I'm following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard him call; I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way; I found that place at the close of day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared a laugh, a kiss; Ah yes, these things, I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full, I savored much; Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch. Perhaps my time seems all to brief; Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now, He set me free. ~© Linda Jo Jackson~