Gerald E. Ratajczyk, 86, of Scheller, passed away at 7:33 P.M., Thursday, March 28, 2024 at his residence.
Gerald had been a farmer.  He also worked at Streamline, Captain, and Conant mines.  He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tamaroa.  Gerald was a United States Army veteran, serving from 1957 until 1959.  He was a member of UMWA and Perry County Farm Bureau.  Gerald enjoyed farming and anything related to tractors.  He also enjoyed going to parades, the Pinckneyville Thresherman's and going out to eat.
He was born July 5, 1937 in Tamaroa, IL, the son of Emil and Helen (Betlewjewski) Ratajczyk.
He married Marilyn J. Kwiatkowski on May 12, 1962 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Radom and she survives.
He is survived by his wife of Scheller, four children - Jacqueline Hall and husband Jody of Mt. Vernon, Brian Ratajczyk and wife Tammy of Bartelso, IL, Craig Ratajczyk and wife Gina of Cumberland, RI, and Allison Kujawa and husband Todd of Woodlawn, IL, one brother - Conrad Ratajczyk of Tamaroa, seven grandchildren - Austin Ratajczyk, Alexa Ratajczyk, Colton Ratajczyk, Greyson Ratajczyk, Genevieve Ratajczyk, Jacob Kujawa, and Harlee Kujawa, and his dog - Ruby.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters - Delores Radake and Joann Mendel, and one brother - Norman Ratajczyk.
Graveside services will be at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Tamaroa with Fr. Carl Schrage officiating.
Those attending the service are asked to go directly to the cemetery.
Friends may call from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday at the Searby Funeral Home in Tamaroa.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the Army National Guard.
Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Tamaroa, IL.
Friends may make memorials to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.