Ratzlaff, Peter (1862-1939)

Christlicher Bundesbote obituary: 1939 Jul 11 p. 13

Birth date: 1862 Nov 2

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1939 Jun 21 p. 1

text of obituary:

Pioneer Merchant Of Henderson, Nebr., Passes Away

PETER RATZLAFF CAME TO NEBRASKA FROM RUSSIA IN HIS EARLY YOUTH

Peter Ratzlaff, pioneer merchant of Henderson, Nebr., passed away there Tuesday, June 13. Funeral services were held Friday, June 16, at the Bethesda church, where Rev. A. W. Friesen officiated.

The Henderson Review gives the following details of Mr. Ratzlaff's life and recent illness:

Mr. Ratzlaff who was born Nov. 2, 1862, in Kleefeld, South Russia, came to this community in 1876 and in October 1887 when Henderson was settled, founded the first general store, together with J. J. Peters. After a few years Mr. Peters sold his interests to Mr. A. J. Mierau who in turn sold to Johann Ratzlaff. The Ratzlaff brothers partnership lasted for about ten years. Since that time the store was operated individually by Mr. Ratzlaff until his retirement.

Mr. Ratzlaff was preceded in death by his wife in 1922. He is survived by three sons, Abe, Jacob and Dietrich of Henderson; three daughters, Helen, Mrs. P. B. Buller and Marie of Henderson; one brother, Bernhard of Henderson and four grandchildren. Jacob, Helen and Marie made their home with their father.

The Mennonite obituary: 1939 Jul 11 p. 14