James A. Strattard

James A. Strattard, 56
GRAY -- Surrounded by family, James A. Strattard, 56, died peacefully on Dec. 12, 2010, after a courageous two year battle with Esophageal Cancer. He grew up in North Yarmouth and was a graduate of Greely High School. Jim had many talents; he was the true 'Jack of all trades.' In his early years he painted houses with his father, worked for Pepsi and Oakhurst, but found his true calling when he worked in the flooring industry and construction. If someone questioned how to do something you would always hear 'go ask Jim he'll know.'
Jim's passions included gardening, cooking, camping, fishing, and 'puttin'.' His home and family were the most important thing to him. He took special pride in his famous pickles and pumpkin patch with his grandchildren. He had a wonderful sense of humor that always brought a smile to the faces of those who knew him. His grandchildren especially enjoyed his jokes.
Memories of Jim will live on through his wife, soul-mate and best friend, Stacy, of 20 years; and their six children, Rachael Strattard of Ossipee, N.H., Michelle Strattard of Gray, Katie and Steve Maschino of New Gloucester, Jodie Sanborn of West Virginia, Mylan and Dan Bannon of Bangor, and Andrew and Vanessa Sanborn of Oceanside, Calif.; his grandchildren, Dylan, Jacob, Jason and Levi; as well as extended family and friends. Jim was predeceased by his parents, John and Ruth Strattard of North Yarmouth. He was one of five children; brothers John Strattard II and wife Karole, Bill Strattard, Bruce and wife Karen, and sisters Joanne Burgess and husband Tom, and Tina Strattard.
A memorial visitation will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday at Wilson Funeral Home, 24 Shake Rd., Gray. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday at the First Congregational Church of Gray, 11 Yarmouth Rd., Gray. The Rev. Nancy Salisbury will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, Jim and his family would prefer donations for Toys for Tots by the U.S. Marine Corp.
James A. Strattard