John "Jack" Ratz, Sr., age 73, died on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 in Raleigh, NC at his home. Jack was born on November 12, 1944 in the Bronx, NY to John and Dorothea (Moore) Ratz and was the oldest of four children. After graduating from high school, Jack launched a career at IBM that took him from the mail room to the boardroom. Jack also served proudly as a member of the Air National Guard. Jack was a longtime member of Wildwood Green Golf Club and enjoyed playing a round with friends and family.
Jack is survived by Barbara (DeCourcey) Ratz; daughters, Tracey Ratz Anthony and husband Lance and Cortney Ratz Cowan and husband Gregg; grandchildren, Lance and Shane Anthony, Will and Katie Cowan; sister, MaryBeth McKay; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Kenneth and Michael; and his beloved son, Jack Ratz, Jr.
Jack, Sr. was a driving force in establishing a memorial scholarship fund in his son's honor after he succumbed to tragic automobile accident as a teenager. In addition, Jack, Sr. was instrumental in hosting an annual memorial junior golf tournament at Wildwood Green Golf Club; it is currently in it's 29th year.
The family will celebrate Jack's life at a private family service.
Should you wish to honor Jack's memory, please consider a gift to the Jack Ratz, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Cardinal Gibbons High School, 1401 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607.
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