Peter Ratkovich

Peter Ratkovich

American Flag, age 94, of Brookfield, passed away peacefully March 8, 2014 at home surrounded by his family. He was born July 17, 1919 in Rockvale, Colorado. A graduate of Farragut High School, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corp and worked in forestry in Oregon and Washington State. At age 21 Peter was drafted into the army and served under Patton’s 5th  Infantry  from 1941-1945. He was awarded the Purple Heart. After the war he became a barber, a career that lasted 50 years. He married Violet Novacek in 1946, had one daughter Pamela, and was married for 67 years. Peter enjoyed bowling, ballroom dancing, ping pong ,carpentry, horseshoes and spending time with his family and friends. He was an active member of the Brookfield Moose and the VFW of Berwyn. Peter is survived by his wife Violet, his daughter Pamela (Robert) Cherry of Wheaton, two grandchildren, Allison Cherry of Wheaton and Brent (Lisa) Cherry of Lake Mills, WI, great-grandson Dawson and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Emil and Mary Ratkovich and 5 brothers and sisters. Visitation Tuesday, March 11, 2014, 3 P.M. to 8 P.M. and Wednesday, March 12, 2014, 10:30 A.M. to 11 A.M. at Hitzeman Funeral Home Ltd. 9445 West 31st Street, Brookfield. Funeral Wednesday 11 A.M. interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorials appreciated to VFW Berwyn Post 2378, 1529 South Harlem Ave., Berwyn, IL 60402. Information 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com

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Messages of Condolence

  1. Mary and Dale Perona condolence:

    Please accept our sincere sympathies on the loss of your father, Pam. We pray that God gives you the strength to bear this loss. May God bless you and your mom and your family.


  2. Michael Ely condolence:

    Peter was a strong, loving, and considerate man. And he helped shape a strong, loving, and considerate family. This is his legacy. Peter did very well.
    May he forever rest in peace.


  3. Tricia and Ron Halter and family condolence:

    Our deepest and sincere sympathies to you and your family. Wow!! 94 years old. Uncle Pete will be missed. Thinking of your family!! Ron and Tricia and Pat Ratkovich.


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