Kurt Ratliff

Kurt Ratliff (Kurty), age 64, of Union, IA, passed away unexpectedly at home on December 25, 2021, in the company of his wife Cheryl Halverson.                    Kurt was born on April 15, 1957, to Merrl Whitmore and Carson Ratliff.  Kurt grew up in Garwin, IA, and graduated from Garwin High School in 1975.  Kurt was married to Debra Katzer of Garwin in 1980 and the two parted ways in 1999.  In 2001, Kurt met his partner for life, Cheryl Halverson.  After many years living in Garwin, Kurt moved to Union where he made his permanent home.  Kurt worked for Gehrke Inc. for 20 years.                  Kurt loved his family, friends who became his family, and his faithful dog, Jasper.  He cherished his 7 grandchildren, MacKenzie Hinkley, Aiden and Jessie Ratliff, Benjamin, Cole, Layla Jo, and Isaac Hunt.  Kurt enjoyed working on vehicles, hanging out in his shop, and most of all, drinking beer with friends and laughing.  Kurt was always known to lend a hand and help anyone in need.                  Kurt is survived by his partner, Cheryl, his daughter, Jill (Kenny) Hunt of Alburnett, his son, Clay (Cassie) Ratliff of Henderson, CO, and his 7 grandchildren.  He is also survived by his siblings, Carol (George) Siemens of Minnetonka, MN, Tom (Sheila) Ratliff of Garwin, and Connie (Lavern) Jackson of Garwin.  Kurt is also survived by many nieces and nephews, Cheryl’s nieces, Jocelin and Rachelle, and many friends who have become family.  His little buddy, Ethan Swanson, is also left to cherish his memory.                Kurt was preceded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law Marlene Halverson, and his stepson Tyler.                Honorary pallbearers include Steve Gehrke, Cory Clemons, Harris Haywood, Dave Meeker, Mark Green, Randy Havran, Gail Hackney, and Dennis Dostal.                Celebration of Kurt’s life will be held Friday, December 31st at the Union Community Church.  Friends and family may visit from 10 a.m. to 12.  A short memorial service will follow.  The family requests casual attire.  Special thanks to Steve Gehrke and Gehrke Inc. for everything.  Memorials may be directed to the family. For condolences, please contact Mitchell Family Funeral Home at www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. “Don’t be scared” “I always win”  - Lovingly written by the family