Obituaries

John Michael Ratchford, age 84, of Roaring Brook Twp., died Saturday at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. He is survived by his longtime companion, Helen Edwards.
Born in Pittston on October 31, 1932 and son of the late John and Genevieve Sweeny Kaegal Ratchford, he was educated at the former St. Michael’s School. He was a former local roofer and had moved to Roaring Brook Twp. nearly two decades ago.
He is survived by five children, Kathy Sudol, Marie Hoover, John, Charles, and James Ratchford; two siblings, Peggy Renfer and Patrick Ratchford; 20 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A daughter, Coleen Ratchford, and siblings, Ann Renfer and James Ratchford, also preceded him in death.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Friday at 10:00AM at Queen of the Apostles Parish, 715 Hawthorne Street in Avoca, to be celebrated by Rev. Phillip J. Sladicka, Pastor. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Parish Cemetery in Avoca. Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Friday between 9:30-10AM at the church.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street in Old Forge.