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BORN
1947
DIED
2016
George Ratzlaff Obituary
George Ratzlaff was born on November 22, 1947 in New Orleans, LA, the only child of Clarence George Ratzlaff and Julia Farris Brantley. He graduated from Mid-City (now Crescent City) Baptist, and was married March 7, 1981 to Gail Lewis. He joins in Heaven his parents and brother-in-law, Floyd Lewis, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 35 years and his children: Whit and Laura Cassidy (Ratzlaff) Prottsman, and Paul and Paige Lewis (Ratzlaff) Gutacker.
George was an incredible man: follower of Jesus and unashamed Gospel witness; lead singer/songwriter of The Basement Wall and Potliquor; Grammy-nominated recording artist; CEO and on-air talent of Intermedia Automotive Advertising, Inc.; savvy investor and entrepreneur; golf-swing perfecter; boiled crawfish devourer; Disney World enthusiast; 20-year ministry partner of The Jesus Film Project; loving husband and father. George savored the good things on earth while eagerly awaiting the good things in Heaven. He will be remembered as a comedian, family man, provider, and friend.
Services will be held on Saturday, March 12, 11am Vista Community Church, Orlando, FL. In lieu of flowers, donate "In memory of George Ratzlaff" to Jesus Film Project: Women for Jesus: Magdalena Translations at http://bit.ly/1nwKBqq.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for George Ratzlaff
March 10, 2017
In Loving Memory of my Dear friend George Brantley Ratzlaff who passed away on March 8, 2016 from heart complications. He led me to Christ when I was 20 years old and he loved Jesus more than anyone I have ever known!
My thoughts and prayers go out to His Loving wife Gail and his Precious daughters Laura & Paige. George was a devoted husband, father, musician and a wonderful friend to all who knew him!
In the song lyrics "When God Dips His Love In My Heart" he found inspiration through his Love for Jesus and he became an anointed musician - singer songwriter. George always poured his Heart & Soul into his Music touching lives and leading people to the "Foot of The Cross" his music will live on continuing to reach and Bless future generations!
In the words of George's song "Beyond The River Jordan" he knew that he would see his way back Home to his waiting Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
"Beyond the River Jordan" lyrics and lead vocals by George Ratzlaff (Potliquor) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4uNAg8opeM
Charlotte Ann Pickett
March 8, 2017
In Loving Memory of George Brantley Ratzlaff
Vickie Jenkins
May 30, 2016
Condolences to the Ratzlaff family. Know that George's legacy will live on in the Ohio University Marching Band. I first played it in the Fall of '87 - it is forever etched in my mind & heart. Playing & dancing "Cheer" brings a joy to many & will continue to do so. Rest in Peace
Jennifer Uhlhorn
May 30, 2016
So sorry for your lose. The song Cheer is a huge part of the tradition that is the Ohio University Marching 110. I for one will play that song with a little for feeling next time.
Kevin Brandich
May 29, 2016
Your music touched and inspired more of us than you probably ever knew. For decades, the pounding intro of 'Cheer' gives many of us instant goosebumps. Thank you. Your legacy will live on long with the Ohio University Marching Band.
Peace to your family and friends.
S Miska
May 29, 2016
Mr. Ratzlaff your song Cheer meant a lot to me. I was a member of the Ohio University 110 from 88-92 and my senior year was chosen to dance this chart with 5 others. Those were such good times. I will always remember and 24 years later, I can still play that chart with no music. My condolences to the family.
Bill Schlitz
May 29, 2016
I'm sorry for your loss. George's music meant a lot more than you may realize to a lot of people. As a former member of the Ohio University Marching 110, I enjoyed playing "Cheer" perhaps more than any of the other "standard" charts which are still a part of the rotation. Such a beautiful song and soulful voice... Thank you and God Bless
Dan W
May 27, 2016
I never met George, but as a member of the Ohio University Marching 110 (and I realize this sounds kind of strange) his song Cheer really touched my life -- to the extent that if my four years at OU were made into a montage, it's probably Cheer that would be playing in the background.
My condolences on your loss, and as I see other OU grads have posted here too, I hope the knowledge that George's talent touched so many people far/wide can be some comfort to you during this time of grief.
Brian Gillogly
May 27, 2016
So sorry for your loss. My wife and I were both members of the OU Marching 110 and I danced the "Cheer" dance we danced to it many times. I enjoyed entertaining the crowd with that song, but couldn't have done it without George's song. I can still hear the announcer before we started playing and that was 20 years ago. He was a huge contribution to Ohio University and the Marching 110!
Nathan Gilcher
May 27, 2016
I never knew George, but as a former 5-year member of the Ohio University Marching 110, I knew him for five years through the song "Cheer". Thank you for your music. God bless.
Paul Raab
May 27, 2016
George's friends and family may not know that the Potliquor hit song he wrote and sang, "Cheer," was arranged for and has been performed for at least 40 years by the Ohio University Marching 110. In fact, we performed it at Carnegie Hall in 1976. His music lives on. Condolences.
May 27, 2016
Love his music with Pot Liquor! So sorry for your loss.
V. Morgan
March 22, 2016
Dear Gail, From friends far away, in distance and time, thank you for sharing George's memorial service online. It meant a lot. So very sorry for your loss. May you and your lovely daughters find comfort in your faith and in each other.
Frankie Henslee
March 20, 2016
Dear Gail, Laura and Paige......I am so sorry for the loss of your special husband and father. George was an amazing man and I was forever blown away by all of his accomplishments. I loved his music and his passion for Christ...he set the bar high! My heart aches for your loss but celebrates with your joy in knowing that this is not the end...but only the beginning. God BLess and keep you, encourage you and give you His peace.
Terry Burhans
March 19, 2016
I've loved George from the day I met him...I will see him at the foot of the Cross.
Randy Knutson
March 16, 2016
Very sorry to hear of the passing of this man. I have been a fan of Potliquor since I was 11 years old, and I am 57 now. His voice was one of the most soulful I have ever heard and his exciting vocals, especially on the song "The Train" attest to his strong faith in the Lord. Every time I listen to it, it brings tears of joy to my eyes. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Dixie Ragan-Brunson
March 14, 2016
I just got my year books out of storage last week and saw his picture. I am so sorry to hear that he passed. I'm so thrilled that he is now singing in Heaven's choir before the Lord. Nothing but Joy now and Forever. I graduated in 1964, one year ahead of George. Praise the Lord for the work he left behind.
Barrie Edgar
March 12, 2016
Save a place for me in rock n roll heaven, old buddy.
Janelle Bourdier O'Neal
March 11, 2016
My sincere sympathy goes to George's family. He's joined my brother and fellow Basement Wall musician, Terry Bourdier, in the presence of the Lord. I'll just bet they're reminiscing about old times.
Bill Jones
March 11, 2016
I grew up with George in New Orleans during the late 50,s and early 60,s.I will miss h and his love of music
RONALD M. HESS
March 11, 2016
George was a good friend during our teen years having gone to Mid-City Baptist High. He was for ever in motion and tapping out a beat on anything at hand. He was full of life and mischief in those days as were we all. I cherish many good memories and was also glad to learn of his faith in Jesus. May his family we comforted with hope of reunion when we shall all see Him who saved us by His grace..
Ken Connor
March 11, 2016
George was one of my oldest and dearest friends. Last year after not having spoken for over 35 years we got back in touch...it was like we were never parted...I loved the man and have very fond memories of our time together at LSU. I was new in town, from living in Taipei Taiwan, and we lived in the same dorm. My room mate, Guy Schaefer, ultimately became the bass player in many of George's bands.
George was a friend to me when I needed a friend. He will be sorely missed in my life. Rest in peace old friend and may the good Lord watch over his family.
Melissa Bailey
March 10, 2016
Saddened and shocked to hear of his passing. Grateful for the assurance of his eternal home. May the Lord comfort each of you during/through this time.
Jack Saxon
March 10, 2016
Our high school days were our best. George was my best friend and we hung out every day and weekends. Sadly missed. I was thrilled after high school to learn of his salvation. I will see him again. So sorry for the loss.
Krickett Dawson-Perilloux
March 10, 2016
We were good friends in the old days George was a beautiful person and will be remembered. I didn't remember he got married on my birthday.
Benjamin Crawford
March 10, 2016
Gail and family,
Please know how sad and sorry I am for your loss. I always liked George and will remember his enthusiasm for all things music. Right down to the night he called and got us to throw on clothes to go see Fats Domino in Baton Rouge. My love and prayers for you all.
Benjamin "Bennie" Crawford
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