Gerald E. “Gary” Ratsch

Gerald E. “Gary” Ratsch

     Gerald Ratsch, 85, of Granton, WI, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, with family by his side, at the Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

     Gerald was born March 12, 1939, in Lindsey, WI, the son of Harold and Irene (Sternitzky) Ratsch. He attended school in Lindsey for the first couple of years and then went to Forman Grade School. He attended Loyal High School and then went to work for Roddis Corporation, which was bought out by Weyerhauser, which then eventually became Marshfield Door. Gerald worked there for 47 years, all while farming, and retired in 2023.

     He enjoyed hunting and camping and making little “people” out of nuts and bolts. He made them for people retiring from work and family members’ birthdays and anniversaries.

     He is survived by his wife, Adeline; two sons, Steven (Shelly Lechner) Ratsch of Pittsville, WI, and Tom (Lisa) Ratsch of Granton, WI; six grandchildren, Steven M. Ratsch of City Point, WI, Kristeen Leach of Nekoosa, WI, Rikki Ratsch of Granton, WI, Miah Lechner of Pittsville, WI, Josh Lechner of Pittsville, WI, and Melissa Schmidt of Spencer, WI; 10 great-grandchildren, Lily Ratsch, Brock Ratsch, Landon Leach, Jordan Leach, Olivia Schmidt, Ryker Schmidt, Hudson Lechner, Preseley Lechner, Martin Leal and Claire Leal; a greatgreat-grandchild, Hazel Sternitzky; two sisters, Beverly Lau of Mosinee, WI, and Gloria Riedel of Chili, WI; and a sister-in-law, Lola Carolfi of Stratford, WI.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Ronald (Sharon) Ratsch, Marlen Ratsch and Emery “Butch” (Alvina) Ratsch; a sister, Betty (Alfred) Coel; two brothers-in-law, Roger Lau and Dale Riedel; and a nephew, Michael Krause.

     A celebration of Gerald’s life will be held at a later date.

     Online condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

     Gesche Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting Gerald’s family.