The City of Reading mourns the passing of former District 4 Councilman Stratton “Strat” Marmarou, who died this morning at the age of 92. A lifelong public servant, Marmarou dedicated decades to the safety, civic life, and well-being of Reading’s residents.
Marmarou retired from the Reading Police Department after a distinguished career in law enforcement. He was elected to City Council in 2006 and served District 4 with distinction until 2022. Throughout his life, he was an active member of the Berks County Democratic Committee and deeply involved with St. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, where he was known for his steadfast service and generosity of spirit.
Mayor Eddie Moran reflected on Marmarou’s impact on the community:
“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of a dear friend Strat Marmarou. I first met him when we moved to Reading and my son began playing with the Reading American Little League. What started as time spent at the ballfields quickly turned into a friendship I will always be grateful for. Strat was someone who truly cared about his community and the people in it.
Over the years, I have had the distinct honor of serving as mayor while he served on City Council. He brought a love of civic engagement, dedication and heart to public service, having also served as a RPD officer early in his career. He cared immensely about his family. They were his pride and joy.
Strat was a tireless advocate for the Ninth and Marion Fire Station, fighting for years to ensure it remained a vital part of our city and I’m glad he got to see his vision come to life. Our community has lost a true public servant and a good man. His love and commitment to Reading never wavered. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed.”
Reading City Council President Donna Reed shared the following statement on behalf of City Council:
“The passing of Councilman Emeritus Strat Marmarou marks the end of an era. Strat, still actively serving in office and in several professional, civic and religious entities well into his 90s, was a link to Reading from the 1930s through the early 21st Century.
He seemed to know everyone and that knowledge served him well as a public servant. As a councilman for District 4 for nearly two decades, he was directly engaged with his constituents, paying attention and following through on their concerns. His vote was there to preserve the Antietam Lake watershed, and he worked collaboratively to help the city exit Act 47.
Perhaps the source of greatest pride to him was the construction of the new Ninth and Marion Fire Station for which he lobbied tirelessly. Councilors past and present respected him for his direct approach to issues and his personal thoughtfulness to his colleagues and the Council staff. Strat was one of a kind. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. May Strat Marmarou be long remembered in this city he loved, and may his memory be a blessing.”
Arrangements and information regarding services will be shared by the family in the coming days.
