James T. Ratliff

James T. Ratliff, age 65, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2014 in Hale, MI. He has lived in Hale, MI for the past twelve years, formerly from CA. James was born to William and Mary Ratliff in Pontiac, MI on July 25, 1949. He was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corp and served during Vietnam. James was a member of the USMC Raiders where he was the Sargent at Arms. He was part of a family Marine Corp Legacy that stretched 5 generations, including his father who was a Raider during WW2. He worked as an art director and sign artist for Warner Brother, Disney, Paramount Studios, and Universal Studios in California, where he retired from the Motion Picture Industry in 1994. He always loved going to the movies.

He made his kids a priority with every decision and he was generous with his time and talent throughout his life. He strove to be a light to those in darkness and to always love and honor God.

“Love one another” “Sharing is Caring”

James is survived by his children: James (Lori) Hotary of Holland, MI; Sarah (Andrew) Benson of Colorado Springs, CO, Christopher (Nichole) Ratliff of Gaylord, MI, and David Ratliff of Colorado Springs, CO; grandchildren: Evan, Connor, Harvey and Maximus; and siblings: William “Bill” Ratliff, Christina Collard, Diana Jorissen, Sheila Turbett, Robert Ratliff, Theresa Morris, and Karla Mason and families. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary.

No service is scheduled at this time. His wishes are to be buried at a National Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch, MI.