Kathryn A. Ragatz

Kathryn Ann Garner Ragatz, age 63, of Beetown, passed away on Wednesday, September 29, 2010, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 10, 1947, the soul child of John Toay and Ann (Forck) Garner.

Kathryn attended Beetown elementary school and graduated from Lancaster High School in 1964. She studied Nursing in Chicago and later graduated with a degree in Elementary Education from Winona State University. Kathryn taught at Winskill Elementary School in Lancaster and later pursued a banking career at Woodhouse and Bartley Bank in Bloomington, WI, retiring in 2005.

Kathryn was very passionate and instrumental in the success of the Wisconsin High School Rodeo Association, and served as the executive secretary for over 30 years. She dedicated countless hours to the youth of Wisconsin, teaching them about life in and out of the rodeo arena. She was a member of the Lancaster Congregational Church and West Grant Saddle Club.

When Kathy wasnt outside with her horses on the family farm, you would find her cooking for her family and any potential guest that might be dropping by the farm for dinner. Taught by her mother, Kathryn was an extraordinary cook. Canning, cooking, baking and gardening were among her favorite pastimes.

She is survived by her children: Bradley John BJ (Misty) Ragatz, Beetown; Sara (Jacob) Burks, Lancaster; Jon (Alison) Ragatz, Beetown; her former husband, Ted (Marsia) Ragatz, Lancaster; her grandchildren: Brittney Stein, Bridee Burks, Brenna Ragatz, Lainee Burks, Toay Ragatz and Ronnie Ragatz.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents and step-mother, Kay Garner.

Funeral services were held on Monday, October 4, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. at the Lancaster Congregational Church with Pastor Mark Hoehne officiating. Burial was in the Charlotte Cemetery, Glen Haven Township. Family and friends called on Sunday, October 3, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Lancaster Congregational Church and from 9:00 a.m. until time of services on Monday at the church. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Kathryn A. Ragatz Memorial Fund has been established. Schwartz Funeral Home in Lancaster is assisting the family.