Delema Gratton

SWANTON– Delema B. (Nelson) Gratton, age 85, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 27, 2023 at Birchwood Terrace Rehab and Healthcare Center in Burlington.

She was born on November 18, 1937 to the late Henry and Merle (Brown) Nelson.

Delema grew up in a large family in Washington County. Later in life she received her high school diploma from Mount Manfield High School and raised her family in Winooski. She was the co-owner of the Richmond Cash Marker, and then worked for Chittenden Bank where she retired. Delema enjoyed reading, crocheting, and watching her daily TV shows. She will be remembered for her strong will, no nonsense disposition, and traditional values.

She is survived by two daughters, Betty LaRose and her husband Duane of Jonesville, and Patricia Gratton of Swanton; three sons, Joseph Gratton of Rutland, David Gratton and his wife Wendy of Huntington; and John Gratton of Burlington; three granddaughters, Rebecca LaRose, Ashley Gratton and her partner David Fallon, and Hannah Gratton; she was also blessed with two great granddaughters, Lila and Esmae Fallon; brother, Carlos Nelson and his wife Patricia of Duxbury; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Delema was predeceased by a grandson, Ethan Gratton; five sisters, Neva Dessareau, Beverly Allen, Hestra Livingston, Lois Nelson, and Leona Fleischer; and three brothers, William Nelson Sr., Herry Nelson, and Meridan Nelson.

Family and friends are invited to Delema’s memorial service on Friday, November 3, 2023 at 10:00 AM at The Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488 followed by her interment in the Mountain View Cemetery, Freeman Hill Road, Moretown, VT 05660.

For those who wish, contributions in Delema’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.

Delema’s family would like to give a special thank-you to Lisa Trayah, long time caregiver and friend, along with the staff at Birchwood Terrace for the care that she received.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com