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Thomas J. Ratchford

RATCHFORD, SMITH, WILLITS, VISSERS, MODJESKI, MILLER, JOHNSON

Posted By: diane (email)
Date: 12/2/2021 at 18:49:08

Thomas J. Ratchford, 81, of Independence, IA died Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at Buchanan County Health Center in Independence, IA.

He was born on November 25, 1936, in Independence, IA the son of Donald T. and Marian L. (Smith) Ratchford. He was a 1955 graduate of Loras Academy in Dubuque, IA. On August 10, 1963 he married the love of his life Karen Kay Willits at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Chairton, IA. They made their home on a farm in rural Independence, and for many years he was employed with John Deere.

Thomas was passionate about officiating sports; and he spent many years traveling the state to officiate the games. He enjoyed playing cards, socializing, and talking about politics any chance he had. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Ratchford, Independence, IA his children, Michael (Pamela) Ratchford, Independence, IA, Mary Jo Ratchford, Cedar Rapids, IA, Michelle (John) Vissers, Sioux Falls, SD, Mark Ratchford, Independence, IA, and Matt (Rory) Ratchford, Independence, IA. Thirteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren, a sister Joan (Tom) Modjeski, Lake City, MN, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Mary Ann Miller-Johnson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday April 14, 2018, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Independence, IA, with Rev. David Beckman Presiding and Rev. Mr. Timothy Post Celebrating.

Burial will be held at St. John’s Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 4 PM until 7 PM on Friday, April 13, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, IA, and from 8 AM until 10 AM on Saturday. A Wake Service will be held at 7 PM on Friday in the funeral home.


 

Buchanan Obituaries maintained by Cindy Marshall.
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