By Paula Pyzik Scott

Steve and Susie Stratton, owners of Stratton Greenhouses and roots by Strattons, were celebrated as the Bluffton Lions Club Citizens of the Year for 2025 at an April 21 dinner and reception at Bluffton Town Hall. 

Bluffton Lions emcee Brigette Hoff remarked, “Tonight, we gather to honor Steve and Susie Stratton, who have gone above and beyond in their selfless giving to our community. Many people serve with no promise of personal gain or recognition.

“Service is a part of who they are and how they live their lives. They serve. There are many things you, Steve and Susie, have done for Bluffton, but I personally can't imagine the town now without the large pots of flowers that adorn Main Street in the spring and summer.

“We appreciate all that you have done for our community and how you have stepped up, out of faith, many times, putting others above yourself. Thank you. And tonight, we are here not only to thank you for what you have done, but also to celebrate with you.”

Speakers who provided details about Steve and Susie’s impact on Bluffton as well as other communities were Kathy Dickson, Bluffton University; Rich Johnson, mayor of Bluffton; and Laura Kunkle, America in Bloom Executive Director. Written comments were provided by Katherine Fell, president of the University of Findlay.

It is 20 years since the Strattons introduced the downtown flower pot program to Bluffton. Now officially known as part of the Bluffton in Bloom beautification program, it embodies the philosophy of civic pride promoted and lived by the Strattons.

The event was attended by the Strattons, their family and friends, fellow Bluffton Lions, and past Citizen of the Year recipients.

Hoff thanked her husband Scott for his assistance and assistants Gene Long, Ron Lora, Don Hostetler, John Rich, Ed Yeager and Jerry Szabo. Avery Ulrey and Bella Ellerbrock, Leo Club members from Bluffton High School, assisted throughout the evening.

ABOUT THE CITIZENS OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Lions' motto is "We Serve." Being a service organization, the Bluffton Lions have honored a Citizen of the Year since 1981. Those who have received this award have given their time, effort, and talent for the benefit and betterment of the greater Bluffton area.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS

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Editor's note: Participant names and spelling corrections have been made to the original article.