Malissa L Stratton
September 25, 1967 ~ February 3, 2016
Malissa L. Stratton, 48, of Mount Vernon, passed away with Stephen and Spencer by her side at the University of Iowa Hospice on Wednesday, February 3, 2016, after a long illness. Family and friends will gather from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, February 6, 2016, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Mount Vernon.
Malissa was born September 25, 1967, in Iowa City, Iowa, the daughter of Wayne and Janis (Parizek) Stratton. She graduated from Clear Creek High School in 1986. Malissa played many sports in high school, but especially excelled as a softball catcher. She carried that love of sports with her throughout life. She was a big supporter of youth sports, especially when it came to her son Spencer's baseball and football teams.
She had a grand smile, intoxicating laugh, and a generous, compassionate heart. She would take in any stranger and make them her friend, and give shelter to any lost dog or cat.
Above all things, Malissa enjoyed her life, family, and friends. She will be greatly missed and her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.
Survivors include her family, Stephen Drahos and son, Spencer Drahos, both of Mount Vernon; and Dylan (Faith) Drahos of Marion; mother, Janis Stratton; brothers, Steve (June) Stratton of Ely, Mark Stratton of Coralville; sisters, Susan (Perry) Falvo of Plano, Texas, and Gerrie (Tom) Lueck of Cedar Rapids; many nieces and nephews; extended family, Paul (Jeanene) Drahos and Sylvester 'Sub' (Patricia) Drahos, both of Cedar Rapids, and Kathryn (Larry) Risius of Lafayette, Colorado.
Malissa was preceded in death by her father, Wayne; and sister, Kathy.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Missy was such a treasure in high school. As I am sure most of her classmates do, I remember her laughter, smile, and cheerful demeanor. She was everybody’s friend, whether she knew you for years or merely one minute.
Missy was a classmate and a blast to have around in high school. I am so sorry for your loss.
Oh Missy- I wish I had the chance to say goodbye to you. I was so very sad to hear of your passing.
The great fun that we had along this journey, were countless. Ive yet to meet someone that has the ability to lighten any mood, and laugh through any situation the way that you could.
That smile, your humor, your friendship and most of all you infectious laugh will be greatly missed by all of us whom loved you. Even if we went periods of time in between seeing each other, when we did meet up again we always picked up right where we had left off.
There will never be another Malissa L. Stratton. I will forever hold close to my heart, your beautiful heart and soul.
One last thing…Ill never forget when we were all living together or hanging out at 519 and my youngest Ashley wanted a pair of cowboy boots, and low and behold your Dad showed up a few days later with a pair of cowboy boots for little ole Ashley.
Talk about another man who is missed and appreciated for his kind and compassionate ways…that would be your Dad. He’s been resting up for you 🙂 and welcomed you with open arms. Fly high sister friend. <3
I am very sorry to hear of Malissa’s death. My condolences to her family. I knew Malissa through Faith and Dylan. Though I only met her a few times I do remember her effervescent, friendly personality. I hope the warm memories of her will bring you all comfort in the days and months ahead.
I am so sorry for your loss! Keep her memories alive and she will always be with you!
Brenda Verry
So sorry for your loss. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love to all,
Thelma Wagner Kolar and Anne Wagner Connell
Thinking of all of you. God Bless.
A big hug to Susie,
Love, Jennifer Wagner
When I Come Home to Heaven,
How joyful It Will Be!
For On That Day At Last
My Risen Lord I’ll See.
There’s no greater happiness
Than to see Him face to face,
To see the Love in His eyes,
And feel His warm embrace.
I’ve done nothing to deserve
That perfect Home above,
It was given freely through
The grace of Jesus’ love.
Then why should earthly cares
weigh down upon me so?
They’ll be a distant memory
When Home at last I go.
–Anonymous