Margaret E. (Bolen) Stratman

WAKEFIELD, Mich. - Margaret E. (Bolen) Stratman, 96, a long-time resident of Wakefield, passed away late Tuesday night, Sept. 25, 2018.

Margaret was born on Oct. 11, 1921, in Wakefield, the daughter of William and Vivian (Pikka) Bolen. She attended Wakefield High School and graduated in 1939.

During World War II, Margaret decided to support the war effort and moved to Detroit. She worked in a factory.

On March 15, 1947, Margaret was united in marriage to the love of her life, William F. Stratman, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wakefield. They celebrated more than 68 years of marriage before his death on Nov. 29, 2015.

Margaret was a faithful member of All Saints Lutheran Church and a supporting member of Hope Circle. She was a devoted member of the former Immanuel Lutheran Church. For years, Margaret was a Sunday school teacher at Immanuel and took pleasure singing in the choir at both churches.

Margaret worked at Gogebic Medical Care Facility for 19 years and retired in 1983.

Her hobbies included flower gardening and bowling, and she was once even on two bowling leagues at one time. Margaret was an extraordinary baker. She absolutely loved the outdoors and spent many happy hours walking. But most of all, Margaret enjoyed camping with her family and friends. 

Margaret is survived by two loving children, Jim (Gail) Stratman and Mary Beth (Robert) DaPra, both of Wakefield; four cherished grandchildren, Tim (Lisa), Joe (Jess), Brandon (Melissa) and Maria; five special great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Mason, Lily, Serena and Jereme; her sister-in-law, Vivian Bolen, Wakefield; and several dear nieces and nephews.

Besides her beloved husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, William Bolen.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, Sept. 29, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at All Saints Lutheran Church, 1202 Putnam St., Wakefield, with the Rev. Bill Jacobson officiating.

Pallbearers will be Margaret's family.

Luncheon will be served at the church fellowship hall following the service.

A committal service and interment will take place at Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield, at a later date.

The family would like to express its deep appreciation to the caring staff at Gogebic Medical Care Facility in Wakefield, who provided many kindnesses to Margaret and her family.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.