John J. Ratkovich, 54, a lifelong resident of East Palestine passed away unexpectedly Tuesday October 2, 2018 at the St. Elizabeth Health Center in Boardman.

John was born January 10, 1964 in Salem, Oh, son of the late Joseph and Carol Britton Ratkovich.

He was a 1982 graduate of East Palestine High School and never missed watching the Bulldogs play football on Friday night. He was a self-employed Farmer and Cattle Rancher.

John is survived by a brother, Joe Ratkovich of Negley; a sister, Vicki Failor Harvey of North Lima; his companion, Marilyn Koopmans and several extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Ratkovich and his mother Carol Britton Ratkovich.

The family will receive friends Friday evening from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine. A private burial will be held at Crest Haven Memorial Gardens in New Waterford.