Doreen C. Stratman

Doreen Cecilia Stratman, better known as “Tootie,” age 83, passed away Monday, March 13, 2017 in Shelby. She resided at the Marias Care Center for the past two years. She died peacefully due to natural causes.

At her request, no formal services will be held. Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be invited to an interment of ashes ceremony later this summer.

Born in Twin Butte, Alberta, Canada to Cecilia and Joseph Stratman, Tootie moved to Shelby with her family in 1936 and remained there for life. She was a 1953 graduate of Shelby High School. Her brothers and sisters - William Stratman, Harry Stratman, Sylvia Stratman, Sylvester Stratman, Donald Stratman, Lorraine Stores, Marion Stratman, Robert Stratman, Margaret Foss and Gerald Stratman - preceded her in death. She is survived by sisters, LaVerne Parker and Leona Penberthy, and a brother, LeRoy Stratman.

Tootie was known for her selflessness and gift for caring for others. For 35 years, she worked as a cook at Toole County Hospital in Shelby. She was the main caregiver for her elderly mother and a brother with special needs. She also helped another brother during his struggle with cancer. Through all this, she retained a wonderful sense of humor with the most adorable laugh.

Tootie was an avid reader, crossword puzzle expert and master of parlor games - especially Scrabble - where she’d display her fierce competitive streak. She loved to travel near and far, from camping trips in Glacier National Park, to a journey to Poland during the height of the Cold War. She was a fun and patient mentor, teaching dozens of her grateful nieces and nephews (and their kids) how to cook, can, sew and play pinochle. She made a positive impact on everyone she met.

The Stratman Family would like to thank the staff at the Marias Care Center for their professional and compassionate care for the elderly.

In lieu of cards or flowers, please consider a donation to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America at www.myasthenia.org.