SIDNEY- Dennis Ward Stratton Sr., 88, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026. He was born on July 14, 1938, in Augusta, Maine, to Charles and Ula (Wallace) Stratton.

Dennis was a hardworking man in every sense of the word. He was a logger by trade and took great pride in his work. Even after retiring at the age of 85, Dennis never truly retired. He continued to work whenever he could, because working was more than a job to him, it was something he genuinely loved.

Dennis had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the Maine way of life. He loved racing and could often be found enjoying the races around the Unity, Wiscasset, and Oxford areas. He also loved attending logging shows and appreciated the skill, strength, and hard work that went into them.

One of Dennis's greatest joys was his family. He deeply cherished time spent with his loved ones and especially enjoyed family gatherings, where he could be surrounded by the people who meant so much to him. His family will remember him not only for his strength and work ethic, but for the countless memories made together over the years.

Dennis also had a remarkable love and knowledge of birds. He enjoyed bird watching and could tell you, in great detail, about the different types of birds and their behaviors. He took great interest in observing the world around him and sharing what he knew. There was, however, one creature that never earned his admiration: the squirrel. Dennis absolutely hated squirrels, a fact his family will surely remember with a smile.

Dennis is survived by his children, Charlie (Tracy) Stratton and Henry (Cathy) Stratton; his daughter-in-law, Karla; his stepchildren, Ruby, "Frank" Rodney, Susie, and Sharon; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom carry memories of him and the mark he made on their lives.

He was predeceased by his loving life partner of many years, Beatrice, who passed away in 2014, as well as his three children, Dennis Jr., Kathy, and Shelia.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dennis's grandson, Dennis III, who remained by his grandfather's side for the past three years, assisting him with daily activities and providing companionship, care, and love. The family also wishes to give special thanks to Tracy for helping Dennis with household chores and for always offering her assistance wherever it was needed.

Dennis leaves behind a lifetime of hard work, stories, knowledge, laughter, and memories. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on through the people he loved, the lessons he taught, and the many lives he touched.

Visiting hours will be held at Wheeler Funeral Home at 26 Church Street, Oakland, ME, on Thursday, October 1st, 2026, from 5pm-8pm. A graveside service will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery in Belgrade, ME at 12 noon on Friday October 2nd, 2026.