Frank Ratter

George Franklin Ratter was born September 3, 1933, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to Louis and Edith (Barkus) Ratter. As of January 5, 2021, he was called home to the arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ. He was baptized, confirmed, and married at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in the same city, enjoying membership in many WELS churches in the country throughout his life.
Frank graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1951, and soon after, he joined the United States Navy with his brother, Gerhardt. He earned an associate degree in air conditioning and refrigeration from Ferris Institute in Big Rapids, Michigan. Frank married Verna Agnes Janke on October 26, 1957, and was blessed with a daughter, Jan Kay, on July 24, 1960. He was employed by the Whirlpool Corporation as a service manager for 25 years, his job taking him all over the United States.
After retiring in 1995, Frank and Verna traveled for about 10 years in their travel trailer, working with the WELS Builders's for Christ Organization. They settled down on the Gulf Coast of sunny Navarre, Florida, where they enjoyed the beautiful beaches and all the wonders of living near the water.
Frank leaves behind his daughter, Jan Kay, and son-in-law, Daniel Conrad as well as grandchildren, Bernard, Emilie, Amanda, and Taylor; great-grandchildren, Thomas, Willow, Arthur, and Sebastian; brother-in-law, Alton Wendzel; sisters-in-law, Irma Krieger, Mildred Wendzel, and Donna Janke; many beloved nieces and nephews and friends that will miss him dearly.
Preceding him in death was his wife, Verna of 60 years; his parents, brothers, Helmuth and Gerhardt; nephews, Greg Wendzel; brothers-in-law, Allan Krieger, John Janke, Robert Janke, and Carlton Janke; sisters-in-law, Lorraine Janke, Leona Janke, and Sherron Janke.
No service will be held at this time due to Frank's desire to keep all his friends and family safe from this horrible virus that took his life. An open-air graveside service will be held this spring while placing his ashes next to his wife, following all covid guidelines.