Mr. John William Ratzlaff

John Ratzlaff passed away on January 17th, 2015 at the age of 68 years old after a stroke was complicated by dementia and influenza. John was born in California and lived there until he retired from the Aerospace and Defense Industry in 2002. At that time, Johneecided to travel the USA in a trailer. He travelled to 49 US states (many states more than once) and all the Canadian Provinces including Newfoundland and Labrador. Alaska was one of his favorite places to visit. He was an enthusiastic explorer travelling the world both personally and with work, living in England for four years. He knew immediately when travelling to the Pittsboro area that this is where he wanted to live out his life. He loved the peacefulness, the genuine people, and the four seasons that the area provided. An avid golfer and outdoorsman, John spent many years playing a number of sports, especially golf and hunting. He was a great NASCAR fan and supported Tony Stewart no matter the race outcomes. John was an easy spirit and well-liked by many people. He will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched. He is survived by his wife, Sherry; his brother Stephen, and niece Elizabeth. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 26th at 2pm at New Salem Church in Pittsboro. Following the service there will be celebration of John???s life at the Pittsboro Roadhouse in Pittsboro. In lieu of flowers, please send donations ineemory of John W. Ratzlaff to Alzheimer???s NC, 1305 Navaho Dr., Ste. 101, Raleigh, NC 27609 or www. alznc.org.