A funeral will be held Monday, October 20, 2025 for 67-year-old Robert J. Ratz of O’Fallon, Illinois, who passed away at 7:21 pm, Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, Illinois.
He was born October 6, 2025 in Red Bud, Ill. to the John and Louise (nee Wahlig) Ratz, who both preceded him in death.
Robert married Lisa Wilkening on March 20, 1994, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Red Bud, Illinois; she survives in O’Fallon.
He is also survived by two children: Jessica (Patrick) Miller of St. Charles, Mo. abd Jared Ratz of O’Fallon; two siblings: Janel Bassett of Belleville, Ill. and Rick (Jane) Ratz of Omaha, Neb.; a brother-in-law: Mark Wilkening (Lori Matzenbacher) of Red Bud; his dog: Ruger; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was also preceded in death by a sister: Sheri Ratz, and a niece: Christine Ratz.
Robert had worked in the banking industry for over 30 years and had started his career at Bank of America in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997, where he remained until his retirement.
Robert was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus No. 4239, both in O’Fallon, Illinois. He had also served as a Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the Richland Rod & Gun Club in Red Bud.
Robert was a devoted family man whose warmth and generosity touched everyone who knew him.
He had a deep love for the outdoors—whether playing a round of golf on a sunny afternoon or enjoying long bike rides.
A passionate sports fan, Robert rarely missed a game. He took great joy in cheering on his favorite teams like the St. Louis Blues, Cardinals, Battlehawks, and the University of Illinois.
He also had a refined appreciation for bourbon, often savoring a glass with his fellow Knights.
Visitation will be 2-6 p.m. Sunday, October 19, 2025 and 8:30-9:30 a.m. Monday, October 20, 2025 at the Pechacek Funeral Homes in Red Bud.
A funeral mass for 67-year-old Robert J. Ratz of O’Fallon will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, October 20, 2025 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Red Bud. Msgr. Dennis Schaefer will officiate.
Interment will be in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Red Bud.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.