Gerald Ratliff

Gerald Ratliff May 17, 1929-December 3, 2017 Gerald Ratliff, 88, of Rolling Prairie, Indiana, passed away Sunday, December 3, 2017 at his home in Rolling Prairie, Indiana. He was born May 17, 1929 in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Ora Ratliff and Blanche (Chaney) Rankin. Gerald served as a chief petty officer in the United States Navy for over 20 years. He enjoyed doing yard work and spending time with his grandchildren, especially his loyal companion, Golden Retriever "Simba". On October 24, 1953, in La Porte, Indiana, he married Barbara L. Keller Ratliff who preceded in death July 2, 2010. He is survived by his son, Gerald R. (Sharon) Ratliff of Rolling Prairie, IN; daughter, Mary Beth (Tim) Ball of Rolling Prairie, IN; seven Grandchildren, Ross Ratliff, Deanna Ratliff, Stephanie Heron, Megan Gaines, Shannon Szabo, Caitlin Szabo, Gretchen Szabo; four great-grandchildren. Gerald was preceded in death by both his parents; two brothers, Paul Ratliff and Ora W. Ratliff, Jr.; three sisters, Joan Miller, Shirley Smith, and Beverly Landers. Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, Indiana where the family will receive friends Tuesday, December 12, 2017, 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. and Wednesday, December 13, 2017, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. A life celebration will be held at Haverstock Funeral Home, Inc., Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Foster Cemetery, LaPorte, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to the Navy Relief Society, 875 North Randolph Street, Suite 225, Arlington, Virginia 22203-1977. Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Gerald Ratliff please visit our Sympathy Store.