March 25, 1926 - Sept. 10, 2008

Douglas Wayne Ratekin, 82, passed away comfortably at his home in Lebanon on Wednesday.

He was born in Eckert, Colo., the son of Roy and Florence Ratekin. He was a beloved husband, and exceptional father and grandfather.

Douglas served 22 years of military service, eight years in the Navy and 14 years in the Air Force. He was an avid sportsman sharing his love of the outdoors, hunting, camping, boating and fishing with family and friends.

Douglas believed deeply in support of children and his community with proactive fundraising and being an active volunteer. Douglas supported and led many community causes: Shriners, Elks and Masons. Douglas revitalized the Tehachapi California Ag Boosters Club, raising thousands of dollars building an agriculture program to support Tehachapi youth. At 82, he was still active as the assistant secretary of the USS Currituck/USS EverGlades and Torpedomen's Association.

Douglas is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Brittie; eight children, Judy and husband Herb Farr of Colorado Springs, Colo., Michael Ratekin of Lewiston, Idaho, Mary and husband Bob Gates of Santa Barbara, Calif., Laura Tisinger of Long Beach, Calif., Jennifer and husband Terry Valentino of Lebanon, Mark and wife Kristi Ratekin of Bakersfield, Calif., Kevin Bratcher of Shell Beach, Calif., and Kim Bratcher and Shelly Barto of Lebanon; son-in-law Bob Urrutia of Lebanon; sister-in-law Kay Ratekin of Sacramento, Calif.; and brother-in-law Lee Schlepp of Placerville, Calif. Douglas passes his legacy of love to his children, 24 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by brother Roy Ratekin and sister Joyce Schlepp.

"DW" will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A viewing will be from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday at Huston-Jost Funeral Home in Lebanon. A graveside service with full military honors will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Twin Oaks Memorial Gardens in Albany.

Huston-Jost Funeral Home is handling arrangements (www.hustonjost.com).