Obituary of Laurence Stratford

STRATFORD, Laurence Delbert - Passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at the Brantford General Hospital on Friday, June 5th, 2009 in his 71st year. Beloved husband of Leona for over 47 years. Loving father of Cheryl. Devoted grandfather of Eric, Andrea (Chad), and Jessie-Lynne. He is survived by his brother Burnley, sister Mabel and brother Don. Predeceased by his parents Clarence and Ora Stratford, his sister Norma Hamilton and his brother Gordon. Laurence will be fondly remembered by Kevin Anderson, from Stratford & Anderson Ginseng, many other family members, and farming and horse trading friends and associates. His family and farming were his life. He touched many lives, was loved and respected by everyone he met and was very well known for his exceptional horse trading and negotiating skills. Friends will be received at the Beckett-Glaves Family Funeral Centre, 88 Brant Ave., Brantford on Tuesday and Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Sheila Burns Officiating. Interment Oakland Cemetery. Donations to the Oakland United Church, the Youth Division of the Belgium Horse Association, the Youth Division of the Big Creek Saddle Club or Therapeutic Paws of Canada (c/o Leona Stratford, 15 King St. N., P.O. Box 128, Oakland, N0E 1L0) would be appreciated. Laurence often said, "The Good Lord looks after those who look after themselves." A tree will be planted in memory of Laurence in the Beckett-Glaves Memorial Forest.