Farmingdale- Stephen "Steve" John Stratton passed away February 15, 2025 following a brief illness. He was born on September 6, 1948 to Francis "Ted" and Ruby (Everett) Stratton in East Millinocket Maine. Stephen's knowledge and training as a diesel mechanic led to his life long career long-haul truck driving and then for the State of Maine DOT as Transportation Operations Manager, Fleet Service. He decided that retirement was not for him and took on the role of Road Commissioner for the Town of Farmingdale, Maine. Steve grew up in East Millinocket and graduated Schenck High School in 1967. He was a star athlete on the Wolverines cross country and ski teams. He was also a very talented tuba player. Although being unable to read sheet music he had a knack for picking up a tune just by listening to it. He would walk down Maple Street on his way home for lunch playing his tuba for all to hear. Following High School he joined the Army where he served at Fort Bragg, NC earning a National Defense Service Medal. Steve was an avid outdoorsman. He shared many stories of being at "Mud Brook" hunting and fishing, most of the stories being too funny to get through without belly laughing at his own comedic version of the tales. He loved camping in his beautiful 5th wheel camper at many camping sites around Maine but especially at Katahdin Shadows in Medway and Pinegrove. He had a soft spot for his pets and recently rescued a Shar Pei named Lady. He had a love for NASCAR and even did the Richard Petty driver experience in Daytona. Steve was predeceased by both his parents, his brothers, Frank and Richard "Dick" Stratton. He is survived by his companion Barbara Kyllonen of Farmingdale, Maine; his children, Cory Stratton (Lianne) of Lincoln, Maine, Susan Stratton of Queensbury, New York, and Jennie Raymond (Alan) of Chelsea, Maine. His brother, Ken Stratton (Mary), his sisters, Jane St. John (Stan) and Ann McVey (Brian); Sister-in-laws Joey Stratton and Barbara Stratton; special cousin Lois Mennillo; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren nieces and nephews. He will also be lovingly remembered by Barbara's children Jeremy, Jennifer, Jason and Julie. Steve would remind us all that even in this sad time to "Keep Smiling". A celebration of life will be held for Steve in the Spring. Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, www.staplesfuneralhome.com