George M. Stratton Jr. ’70

George died Sept. 4, 2015. A true Southern gentleman, he came to us from University School in Memphis, Tenn., and at his death was president of hardware distributor Acorn International.

Along with many of us in the ’60s, the distractions of Princeton overwhelmed George at first, and he withdrew after two years, spending a stint with the Marine Corps prior to returning and finishing his degree in 1973 when, as he noted, the University was already very different.

He was eagerly looking forward to our 45th reunion, but then faced the wrenching choice between seeing us and fighting one final battle in his 10-year struggle with prostate cancer. On behalf of his family, he chose the latter. As he then said, “It is my hope that this drug trial will give me a shot at being at Reunions to come. If that is not the hand I am dealt, please know and let our classmates know how deeply our friendships have enriched my life.”

George is survived by his wife, Irma ’82; his daughter, Katie; his brother, Gene; and sister Leslie. The class mourns his passing with his family, and fondly recalls his warm gifts to us.