RATZA, Francis – of Davison, age 98, passed away Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 1 PM on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 404 N. Dayton Street, Davison, MI 48423; Rev. Fr. Andrew Czajkowski, celebrant. The family will receive visitors from 4 PM until the time of Rosary at 7 PM on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Allen Funeral Home, 9136 Davison Road, Davison MI 48423. There will also be one hour of visitation at the church prior to Mass on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church or a charity of the donor’s choice, in Francis’ memory.
Francis was born in Clawson, MI on July 10, 1926, son of the late Sylvester and Bernice (Fox) Ratza. He was a proud World War II veteran, serving his country in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. Frank married Velma LaFave on June 25, 1949. They resided and raised their six children in Davison. He retired from Mechanics Laundry in 1987. Frank was a member of the VFW Post #4087 in Davison and a devout member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed competing in field trials, golfing, and camping with his family. Frank will forever be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.
Frank is survived by his loving wife of 75 years, Velma Ratza; five children, Greg (Penni) Ratza, Gayla (James) Dean, Dawn (Brad) Swadling, Gary (Gayle) Ratza, Mark (Debbie) Ratza; grandchildren, Shane, Adrian, Michael, Jennie, Krystal, Kyle, Nicole, Corey, Alicia, and Aaron; step-grandchildren, Celena, Bobby, Sarah, Richie; many great-grandchildren; and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Janis Ratza; brothers, William, Vernon and Bernard.
Frank’s children wish to send him off with a favorite family chant, “WE WANT ICE CREAM!”