Ratzlaff, John G. (1889-1962)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1962 Sep 13 p. 5

Birth date: 1889 Mar 24

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1962 Oct 11 p. 8

text of obituary:

JOHN G. RATZLAFF

John G. Ratzlaff was born to Henry and Margaretha (Schultz) Ratzlaff on a farm near Goessel, Kansas on March 24, 1889 and passed away suddenly on Sept. 10, 1962 at his home near Burrton, Kansas at the age of 73 years, five months, and 17 days.

When he was still a boy, the family moved to a farm near Buhler, Kan. where he grew to manhood.

On May 28, 1912 he was married to Minnie Warkentin who preceded him in death on May 15, 1945. To this union were born to sons and two daughters, Eldon of Wichita, Wilbur of Burrton, Mrs. Virgie Enns of Hutchinson and Mrs. Naomi Winsky of Halstead.

On August 23, 1946 he was married to Mrs. Helen Regier with whom he shared 16 more years of happy married life.

John spent most of his life on the farm. He enjoyed working with livestock. Since he was not able to do farm work in recent years, he spent many hours fishing.

In young manhood, while living in Texas, he accepted Christ as his Savior and was baptized. On May 25, 1947 he placed his membership in the Burrton Mennonite Church, of which he was a faithful member. To him Christianity was something to live, not only to profess. He was also a loving father and husband and he enjoyed and appreciated his children.

Besides his widow and children, he is also survived by four step-children, W. D. Regier of Lyons, Edwin R. Regier of Burrton, and Mrs. Verda Johnson of Halstead; one brother Herman Ratzlaff of Buhler; one sister, Annie Ratzlaff of Hillsboro; 25 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Three brothers, one sister and one granddaughter preceded him in death.

The funeral service was held at the Burrton Mennonite Church on Thursday afternoon, Sept. 13, with Rev. Gideon G. Yoder officiating.

The Mennonite obituary: 1962 Oct 9 p. 652