Robert J Ratz

ROBERT J. RATZ, 67, of O’Fallon, Illinois, passed away at 7:21 pm, Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, Illinois.

He was born to the late John and Louise (nee Wahlig) Ratz on October 6, 1958, in Red Bud, Illinois.

Robert married Lisa Wilkening on March 20, 1994, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Red Bud, Illinois; she survives.

Robert had worked in the banking industry for over 30 years and had started his career at Bank of America in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997, where he remained until his retirement.

Robert was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus #4239, both in O’Fallon, Illinois. He had also served as a Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the Richland Rod & Gun Club in Red Bud, Illinois.

Robert was a devoted family man whose warmth and generosity touched everyone who knew him. He had a deep love for the outdoors—whether playing a round of golf on a sunny afternoon or enjoying long bike rides. A passionate sports fan, Robert rarely missed a game. He took great joy in cheering on his favorite teams like the St. Louis Blues, Cardinals, Battlehawks, and the University of Illinois. He also had a refined appreciation for bourbon, often savoring a glass with his fellow Knights.

Survivors:

Wife:

Lisa Ratz O’Fallon, IL

2 Children:

Jessica (Patrick) Miller  St. Charles, MO

Jared Ratz  O’Fallon, IL

2 Siblings:

  Janel Bassett  Belleville, IL

  Rick (Jane) Ratz  Omaha, NE

1 Brother-in-law:

   Mark Wilkening (Lori Matzenbacher)  Red Bud, IL

His Dog:

  Ruger

Many Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and Friends

Preceded in death by: Parents, 1 Sister – Sheri Ratz, and 1 Niece – Christine Ratz

Funeral Mass:

10:00 am, Monday, October 20, 2025

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Red Bud, Illinois

Officiating:

Msgr. Dennis Schaefer

Interment:

St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery

Red Bud, Illinois

Visitation:

Sunday – 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Monday – 8:30 am – 9:30 am

Pechacek Funeral Homes, Red Bud, Illinois

Memorials:

American Cancer Society