Joshua Ryan Stratton

JOSHUA RYAN STRATTON Joshua Ryan Stratton, 35, of Lewis passed away peacefully at his home on January 26, 2017. Josh was born March 28, 1981 in Cortez, Colorado at Southwest Memorial Hospital. Josh lived in the Cortez/Mancos area for most of his life. He never strayed far from his home because everyone and everything he loved was within his reach. Josh had a love for the mountains, hunting, and fishing, instilled in him by his Grandpa, Larry Larkin, who had Josh in the mountains and to the lakes before Josh could walk. During his school years, Josh enjoyed playing baseball, football, and wrestling. In 2011 the love of his life was born - his daughter, Klaira. She became Josh's best friend. The two of them were often found fishing at the lake - or pitching a tent in the moonlight, as time had slipped away from them and Josh was too tired to drive them home. He loved camping in the meadows with Klaira and her brothers, Zack and James Potts, whom he adored. Josh loved music. He taught himself to play the guitar and would play for hours while he sang. He looked forward to each new day, to enjoy his time with Klaira and visiting with friends, when he was no longer able to leave his home. Josh is survived by his daughter, Klaira; mother, Janice Christiansen (Brook) of Cortez; father, Roger Stratton of Dolores; sister, Hannah Mathews; brother, Randon Mathews and his daughter, Teah, and brother Cutter Mathews, all of Cortez; grandmothers, Betty Gilpin (Ike) of Cortez and Judy Stratton of Grand Junction. Josh leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends. Josh was preceded in death by his grandpas, Larry Larkin and Bob Stratton; and his step-father, Randy Mathews. A celebration of Josh's life will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, February 2, 2017 at the Lewis Arriola Community Center, Lewis, Colorado. Josh was passionate about children getting their hunter safety cards. In lieu of flowers, please connect with a child and make it happen.