President Wippman’s Writings & Remarks

In Memoriam: Michael Wratten

July 5, 2022

Tags In Memoriam

Dear Members of the Hamilton Community,

I am writing to share the sad news that Michael Wratten, who joined our community as a carpenter in 2013, died suddenly on Sunday.

Mike came to Hamilton after working for local contractors and Utica National and applied his multidimensional skill set to many projects and repairs around campus. He was a talented jack-of-all-trades who was creative, meticulous, and took great pride in his work. Recently, he contributed to building the oversized H and K, which were centerpieces for last month’s reunions.

Extraordinarily personable and friendly, Mike was frequently requested by name in work orders. He was described as a fun and dynamic individual who was full of life and joy, with an uplifting personality that radiated positivity to everyone around him. He was even featured in a comical YouTube video instructing Hamilton community members how to close windows properly.

In addition to his work at Hamilton, Mike was active in the local theatre community. In 2019, he was featured as Shrek in the Capitol Theatre’s Summer Stage Production of Shrek, The Musical! He also performed in other productions and volunteered in building production sets.

Mike was a devoted, loving husband and father who was very involved in supporting all of his children’s personal, academic, and extracurricular endeavors. On behalf of our community, I extend Hamilton’s sympathy to his family and our gratitude for his contributions to the College. I encourage you to offer condolences to his wife, Jenna Wratten, and children, Elizabeth, Alison, and Jack. Expressions of sympathy will reach the family at 147 Berrill Avenue, Waterville, NY 13480.

David