Michael Rateau

It is with deep love, gratitude, and respect that we bid farewell to an exceptional man, my beloved husband, Michael Francis Rateau, who passed away on October 23, 2023. Born on May 14, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, Michael led an inspiring, humble, supportive, and thoughtful life. He was a beacon of strength and commitment to his family and friends, often placing others' needs before his own. Michael's life was a testament to the quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, "The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."
Michael, a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, served his country with dedication during his deployment to Vietnam at the Long Binh Post. After his discharge, he returned to his career at Western Electric Co., which later became AT&T and Lucent Technologies. His work took him to various cities across the U.S. before his appointment as Marketing Manager for Europe, Middle East, and Africa positioned him in the Netherlands. Here, he showcased his innovative strategies, opening training facilities in multiple countries and developing customized marketing plans. Despite his professional success, Michael remained modest, always attributing his achievements to teamwork and shared effort.
Retirement didn't slow Michael down; instead, it opened the door to his love for the outdoors. His heart found peace in the tranquil wilderness of Alaska, where he made 10 memorable trips, fishing for halibut, red, silver, and king salmon. He was also a longstanding member of the Silver Bullet Hunt Club in Jasper County, Georgia. His unwavering faith led him to be a lifelong supporter of the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, GA, finding solace and strength there. As Henry Thoreau once said, "Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads," Michael found his heaven in the simple pleasures of nature and the profound peace of spiritual devotion.
Michael is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Rateau; his devoted daughter, Nicole Rateau; and his cherished step-daughter, Janie Gor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Aileen Rateau. We invite you to celebrate Michael's life by sharing your memories and photos on his memorial page. Your tributes will serve as comforting reminders of the man who touched so many lives and whose legacy will forever inspire us to live with kindness, humility, and unyielding love for life.