Jeffrey S. Ratner
1958 - 2011
Jeffrey S. Ratner
1958 - 2011
Obituary
Guest Book
Jeffrey Ratner Obituary
Jeffrey S. Ratner died unexpectedly on Monday, December 19, 2011 at Fox Chase Cancer Center. He was 53.
Born in Bayonne, NJ, the son of Frances (Slivocka) Ratner and the late Irving Ratner, he was a life time resident of Lower Bucks County.
Jeff was a 1976 graduate of Neshaminy High School, where he was a standout in baseball and football and is honored in the Neshaminy Football Hall of Fame.
He attended and played football for Winona State College, Minnesota.
Jeff enjoyed coaching for many years, most recently with SEPA-Knights and Langhorne Athletic Basketball Association. He played baseball nearly his entire life.
He had worked for his father's business, "Irv's Bagels" in Langhorne for several years.
Jeff was a long time sales representative for the former Nichol's and Perfect Pools in Bristol Township. He was employed with R.J.M. Landscaping, and was most recently was employed with Cambridge Landscaping in Morrisville.
He enjoyed all sports indoors and outside.
Beloved husband of nearly 20 years to Nancy-Lee (Gardiner). Jeff was the loving father of Jeffrey S. of Brooklyn, NY, Jessica L., Michael V. and Kyle D. all at home, all of whom were his pride and joy. He was the brother of Helene Ratner of Langhorne, Robert Ratner (Sheri) of Newtown, Mark Ratner (Gwendolyn) of Fairless Hills and Kimberly Whitaker (Bill) of Hulmeville. He will also be sadly missed by several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Family and friends are invited to call on Monday, 5:00 until 9:00 and on Tuesday, 8:30 until 10:00 am at the James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown, where his Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am. Interment will follow in Forest Hills, Cemetery.
Memorial contributions for a trust fund for his children's education, may be made payable to Nancy-Lee Ratner, c/o James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., at the above address.
Helene Ratner
November 22, 2012
There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts - happy Thanksgiving Jeff! I know you will be with us today.
HB
Irving Ratner
November 10, 2012
Thinking of you Uncle Jeff - love and miss you!
Love,
Irv
Helene Ratner
October 20, 2012
not a day goes by that you aren't in my thoughts......and forever in my heart...miss you....always!
HB
Melanie Portman
June 22, 2012
Nancy & the entire Ratner Family....
We are so sorry to hear about Jeff. He is a GREAT PERSON and will be extremely missed!!!!! The Portman Family
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Helene Ratner
April 19, 2012
Just wanted to let you know you are always in my thoughts.
HB
Helene Ratner
March 19, 2012
Jeffrey....I am trying hard and there is something that I read each day to help:
I'd like the memory of me
to be a happy one,
I'd like to leave an afterglow
of smiles when life is done..
I'd like to leave an echo
whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times
and bright and sunny days.
I'd like the tears of those who grieve,
to dry before the sun,
Of happy memories that I leave behind
When life is done.
Helene Ratner
February 1, 2012
There's no other love like the love for a brother.
There's no other love like the love from a brother.
I miss you.......HB
Helene Ratner
January 22, 2012
Baby Bro.....this goes without saying how much I miss you and I can't say yet that it is getting easier because it's not yet for me but seeing Jeffrey, Jessica, Michael and Kyle keeps reminding me what you said that kept you going in life....it's all about love and family. Know how much I will always love you and sending kisses to both you and Daddy. HB
Ashley Ratner
January 19, 2012
Hi Uncle Jeff :) Its already been a month, wow a month already! Love you so much. Things seem to be getting better, slowly but surely. Hope your doing ok up there. Love you alot! Miss you-- Sending back all of those sloppy kisses and all those great hugs.
See ya
<3 Ash
Christine Portnoff
January 17, 2012
Dear Helene,
I am so sincerely sorry for your great loss. I know how much your brother meant to you, and there are no words that will ever make the loss easier to bear. All my love goes out to you and your family.
Ashley Ratner
January 4, 2012
Hi Uncle Jeff! Miss you tons, I have been thinking about you alot. The craziest thing, I was thinking about you and as I walked outside to go home and I looked up at the sky and to my surprise a shooting star caught my attention. I know it was you. Love you, Miss you. Aunt Nancy and the kids had an awesome time with us spending New Year's day together!!! xoxoxo
I hope you know how much we all miss you. Give poppop a kiss for me
<3 Ashley
Thomas Dodd
December 28, 2011
To The Ratner Family -
I am sorry for your loss. Jeff was a friend through High School, we played football together at Neshaminy. We lost touch but after 30+ years, just recently met by chance. I am glad that I got to see him again. We shared a few laughs and a few memories.... And that's what I will remember. May the Lord give you strength and guide you through your time of need.
Nichole, Nate & Kyle Nichols-Brown
December 27, 2011
Nancy, Jess and the boys you & your family all are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers in this time of mourning. I was in disbelief to learn of Jeff's death last Monday night. I still remember him pulling me aside at Pen Ryn to ask me what Nate's intentions were for Jess when they were in kindergarten. "Well" I replied, "I would assume he would like to play soccer, kick ball and possibly have her on his team for any other sports since she's phenomenal at everything!" Jeff was so full of life, larger than even, that I'm sure his spirit will be with you all in everything you do. May God bless and keep you in your time of sorrow.
Matt Johnson
December 27, 2011
Nancy,
I'm so sorry to hear about Jeff. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids during this difficult time.
Patrick Raymond
December 27, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Jeffery and I were friends from elementary school through high school. I spoke with him the night before his surgery. Jeff told me he was happy for all that he was able to do, that he loved his family and was very proud of his children. All of your family is in my thought and prayers. God bless you all.
Kathleen Shank
December 27, 2011
Helene,
Sorry for the loss of your brother. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jerry Russo
December 26, 2011
To the Ratner family:
I'm so sorry for your loss. I only had the pleasure of meeting Jeffrey a couple of times, but I remember a man dedicated to his family, and especially his kids' success. Having known Jess and Mike these past two years, he had lots of reasons to be proud. I wish you strength as you work through this difficult time.
December 26, 2011
Dear Nancy,
Please accept our deepest sympathy on the passing of Jeff. He was a devoted husband, father, coach, son, brother and friend. He often spoke so proudly of you and the children. Jeff's dedication and enthusiastic coaching on the baseball field helped develop our son, Drew, into a fine young man. Please extend our wishes to Jeff, Jessica, Mike and Kyle - we are sure that their father's legacy will live on through their wonderful contributions to our community in the future.
Fondly,
Scott, Ellen & Drew Petri
Holly Jones
December 25, 2011
I am remembering an incredibly supportive and involved father, and a kind and giving man. I am so very sorry for your painful loss. My thoughts and heart are with you all.
Ryan, Julie & Ava Roffina
December 25, 2011
Dear Ratner Family,
I met Jeff about a year and a half ago when his landscaping company was doing work at our house. Over the next 18 months we developed a friendship; he would stop by often to make sure we were doing well. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed.
Carolyn Meyers
December 24, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to all of Jeff's family, I always felt like I knew Jeff so well having grown up in the Neshaminy Football world, being the younger sister of two older NHS graduates, Helene and I have so much in common. He will be missed.
Carolyn, John and Danny Meyers, Langhorne, PA
Frances Ratner
December 24, 2011
My Dearest Son, No words can describe the happiness and joy I felt the day you were born. You had no hair and had a wrinkled face and you looked like an old man, but you were beautiful to me. During your life, you brought me much happiness.There were times I wasn't too happy( when you brought home the skunk or when you left me to go to college) but you brought so many more wonderful things into my life.My heart was broken on 12/19/2011! I know you didn't want to leave all your family. I will always miss the laughter you shared with your sisters and brothers when you all got together. I will miss you calling me on the phone, asking "what's up Momma?" Rest in peace and tell Daddy I love him. I will see you both once again. I love you, Your Momma
Mary Lou Schmitzer/Hutchinson
December 23, 2011
Dear Ratner family, I am so saddened to learn of Jeff's untimely passing. It's been many years since I've seen or spoken to Jeff but he has remained in my thoughts and prayers, as do all of you now. Reading the guest entries has confirmed what I have always known, that Jeff was truly remarkable and everyone is a little bit better for knowing him.
Rest in peace my friend...
Jim and Virginia Briggs
December 23, 2011
Nancy, Jessica, Michael, Kyle and family,
We were so very sorry to hear of Jeff's passing, out hearts go out to you. May his wonderful spirit live on thru those beautiful children he was so very proud of. Please except our deepest sympathies during this very difficult time.
The Briggs Family
jim rogers
December 23, 2011
I am very sorry for the loss of Jeff. My husband meet Jeff about a year and half ago through business and was very impressed how much of a family man he was and ALWAYS spoke highly of his children and family. His family was his world and his greatest achivement. We are truley sorry for your loss and we will keep you in our prayers during this difficult time. Jeff is a great person and will be truly missed.
Caryn Hunt
December 23, 2011
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
December 23, 2011
We are so sorry to hear about Jeff. We are thinking of you and keeping you in our prayers.
Kevin & Kathy O'Connor
Jessica Ratner
December 23, 2011
Hi Daddy,
I talked to you last night and you said everything was going alright, and I trust you! You helped me fall asleep because I wasn't feeling well. Thank you for that! I miss you so much but I know your doing alright and I know your always by my side because we talk all the time! Don't worry, I'll be seeing you soon. It isn't easy, but I know your proud of how strong I'm being and how well I'm handling things because it's how you raised me. I love you so much <3
Debra Meyer
December 22, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Meyer family
ashley ratner
December 22, 2011
I miss you so much, I can't go a moment with out thinking of you. I have never had someone so incredibly close to me pass, and I'm trying to get through this. If I could write you everyday, I would. I hope your liking the beautiful heavens above. It really sucks that your not physically here with all of us. May your new beautiful angel spirit live through all of us. I couldn't be any happier that your my guardian angel. I love you <3
Beth Lukens/Rush
December 22, 2011
Nancy,
My condolences to you and your family at this most difficult time for you and your children. Keep his memories as he will live on through your children and in your heart.
Theresa Zinn
December 21, 2011
Dear Ratner family... my heart goes out to you for your loss. I used to work at Irv's back in the 80's.... I have some great memories of the family. Jeff was a sweet man. Fran, Kim, Mark ... if you remember me, it would be as Tracey Placchetti. I always think back fondly about my first job and the great family that taught me my work values and wonder about you all and how your lives turned out. It saddens me to know of this loss and the pain his wife and children and all of you must be feeling. I lost my Mom last year, so I have some idea; but I also know that no one can know or understand how it has affected each of you personally. Just stay strong and know that everything happens for a reason. Much Love ....
Lamar Davis
December 21, 2011
I'm so very sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. He was a real good guy. Of course over the years as we leave school we go on towards our journeys in life But I recall my friendship with Jeff back in the day. He was always a good person to me. Who he was then I'm sure was just the beginning of the man he became. My sympathy and prayers for his family.
Lori Ahrens
December 21, 2011
Jeff and I became friends many years ago when we were both students at Winona State University. I knew then just as I know now that I was very fortunate to have had such a wonderful person as my friend. There is no doubt that he will be missed. I extend my sympathy to his beautiful family. May God watch over you and sustain you during your darkest hours.
Dave Vaccaro
December 21, 2011
My condolences to your entire family. Jeff and I just met recently and he was a terrific person. He had a very caring nature about him. He is in a good place and will always watch over you.
Ashley Ratner
December 21, 2011
Uncle Jeff, it still has'nt set in of your passing. You were just like my father's "twin" your laugh, your jokes, and that strange sense of humor. I am sorry I didnt get to say goodbye and give back all of the sloppy kisses you would always give us. I miss you more then you'll ever know. You have really impacted my life as well as others. So many people looked and still look up to you. You are so missed, I know that you arent here in the physical world but your spirit, voice, kindness, and extreme love will always live on. I know i'll see you again one day. And dont you worry Aunt Nancy and the kids will deff. be taken care of, I see so much of my brother in Michael and I know he will be the "man" of the house. There isnt a moment that I dont think about you. I hope you and poppop are looking down on all of us. Love you so much, Ashley.
Keith Smeraglio
December 21, 2011
My deepest sympathy to Jeff's family. I am so sorry for your loss. Jeff was a friend, a very close friend, since we were about seven. We played baseball, basketball, street hockey, and any other sport we could think of as kids. We fished over most of Levittown with my brother and Mark spending many entire summers together. Jeff and Jack Jones, who also passed away far too early, and I were roommates for 2 weeks in Milroy for the 1973 Babe Ruth State tournament with a family there. An unforgettable time in our lives. By our 16th birthday we had developed a bond that never broke. I am so glad our paths crossed again over the past couple of years and our friendship was freshened. I miss him already and I will never forget him.
December 21, 2011
Dear Ratner Famiy;
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Udris Family
Mark DiGiacomo
December 21, 2011
I am so saddened to hear about your father. Everything I read about him says the same thing - he was a wonderful, loving man. I hope that as you heal his memory will guide all of you.
Mr DiGiacomo
December 21, 2011
Hey Buddy, I will always remember all the great times we shared together throughout the years . Whether it was at the bagel shop, the track, the house, the bowling alley, pool hall, fishing or just hanging out, we always had a blast. Even though some times we didn't see each so frequently it didn't matter, we always like brothers. You were always there for help or advice if I needed it. I know you loved your family very much and I know you will be watching them grow. You left behind a wonderful family, be proud. I will miss you!! Love, Matt Vig and Christine
December 21, 2011
Words cannot say.... We are here for you for whatever you Need. Our deepest condolences to you Nancy and kids, and extended family all go out to you...
Love, The Polo's
Bob Jackson
December 21, 2011
Hello Mark and Family. I wanted to pass along my sympathy in the loss of your Brother.
scott kohler
December 21, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
maureen mcshane
December 21, 2011
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Mary Anne Pringle
December 21, 2011
Dear Jessica,
I am so sorry to hear about your father. Please know that Mr. Pringle, Sierra, Lydia, and I are all keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. You have always held a special place in my heart!
Mrs. Pringle
Michael Tantum
December 21, 2011
Nancy,
our sincrest sympathy to you and your family. I will miss the times jeff and I laughed as recent as week and half ago. He was always a great family man and he will be truly missed. if there is anything you need just call upon me and lisa
December 21, 2011
To the Ratner family,
sorry for your loss
we will keep you in our prayers,
Craig Sr. Marge,CraigJr.Elizabeth< Patrick, And Rylie Healy
ed jason jefremow
December 21, 2011
Jeff was a great person, and a great athlete.
Tom Calkins
December 21, 2011
Please accept my profound condolences. Jeff was an inspiration as a teammate and to look up to playing sports together at Neshmainy High. Being two years behind Jeff in school it would have been easy for him to overlook a younger player, however Jeff embraced his roll as a mentor.
May he rest in peace.
The Sweetsers
December 21, 2011
Nancy, Jess, Mike, Kyle and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
mary williams
December 21, 2011
Thinking of you. So sorry for your loss.
Bob & Rosemary Winslow
December 21, 2011
Our deepest sympathies to the Ratner Family from the Winslow Family.
Gwendolyn Ratner
December 21, 2011
I love you Jeff and will miss you forever. You were and always will be in my heart. You were always there for me and Mark. After my accident,when I opened my eyes, there you were. Telling me," Gwenny, you'll be allright". After my surgery you were in my room telling me everythings going to be okay. Jeff, I will always remember how you would make those funny expressions, eyes opening wide and a little smirk on your face as your head would tilt to the side.Then you would make that one specific comment to get a rise out of the kids, especially to April or Ashley about the boys! Then watch there faces so you could make your little chuckle. You always showed up to Markanthony's games and bowling matches. You were always there supporting the kids. Yelling out to them as they hit the ball or knocked the pins down. Telling them how great they were. You were always there biggest fan and their greatest cheerleader. And a cute one at that! I will forever hold all those memories in my heart and so will our family. You will live forever in our hearts. We will always remember your AMAZING ways!!! I will forever remember all the love and care you gave us. You never let us down. You were a True and Loving Brother,Son,Husband,and Best Friend. Also an Awesome Coach!
Love you Brother,forever . We will miss you always.
love "Gwenny"
December 21, 2011
Nancy - my thoughts and prayers are with you and your children during this difficult time.
Lisa (Cecconi) La Terra
Matt Wilkie
December 21, 2011
Nancy and Mark, my thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your families.
O'Donnell
December 21, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to your entire family,The O'Donnell Family
December 21, 2011
Nancy, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, wishing there was more we could do to help get you all through this, stay strong.
J. Sloan and family, Mike, Kayleigh, Brigid, Jessie & Erin.
Chuck Thompson
December 21, 2011
Helene, I am so sorry for your loss and the loss Jeff's entire circle of family and friends feel at this time. I am sure he will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him.
Kevin Gallagher
December 21, 2011
We are so sorry for your loss. Jeff's impact on everyone who met him can't be easily measured. But his absence is.
Sue Pfender
December 21, 2011
Nancy and kids, so sorry for your loss. God Bless you all.
December 20, 2011
Through all the years your friendship has been strong. Never get to see you but always hear from you. Stay strong my dear, it is what Jeff would have wanted.
Kevin
O'Connor Family
December 20, 2011
To the Ratner family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
December 20, 2011
To Helene and the entire Ratner Family - our hearts go out to you at this time. I went to school with Jeff and I always found him to be a kind and gentle human being, and he will truly be missed. Our condolences,
The Porter Family, from Lower Orchard;
Gary, Ellen, Julanne, Mary and Beth.
December 20, 2011
Helene, When one of God's people take their last breath on Earth it is their first breath in Heaven. I'm praying for you and yours, please accept my heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time. Love, Terri Newton (FB)
Candice Britton
December 20, 2011
My deepest condolences. Candice Britton
Bill & Dianne Ricker
December 20, 2011
Praying for your family. We are friends with Sheri Ratner and we will continue to keep all of you in our prayers. We know this is a difficult time for all of you. May you all be comforted. Bill and Dianne Ricker
Lola Lindsey
December 20, 2011
I am so so sorry for your loss. all our Family is in Gods Loving arms. no pain again. God be with you all ways. LEL
Dave, Debbie, Austin andEvan Miller
December 20, 2011
Heaven just hit a home run... Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
The Toth Family
December 20, 2011
With sincere sympathy,
John, Nancy, Kevin & Kylie Toth
Mindy Feinberg
December 20, 2011
Helene, my heart goes out to you and the entire Ratner family. I didn't realize that my brother was in the same class at Maple Point. We are all here for you.
Love
Mindy
Lawrence Otter
December 20, 2011
To the Ratner family,
sorry for your loss
we will keep you in our prayers,
The Otter Family
James Alonzo
December 20, 2011
My deepest condolences, God bless.
Jean Senger & Family
December 20, 2011
My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family.
D Reyes
December 20, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss my heart goes out to you.........and your family. I am a friend of Kelly L. Derricks
Debbie Van Horn
December 20, 2011
To all the Ratners.... I pray that peace and comfort surround you! Jeff was an awesome guy! God Bless!!!!
Percy Lindsey
December 20, 2011
I'm truly sorry for your loss I pray for peace for the family and to ease the pain
December 20, 2011
Salute !!!!
Rosemary Rowlands
December 20, 2011
My condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kelly Derricks
December 20, 2011
All My Love To Your Family... Kelly
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
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2200 Trenton Rd., Levittown, PA 19056-1421
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