Rade Kobila "Rod" Ratkovic

FUNERAL HOME

CLOSED-Keaton's Redwood Chapel of Marin

1801 Novato Blvd

Novato, California

Rade Ratkovic Obituary

Rade "Rod" Kobila Ratkovic 1938 - 2008 A longtime resident of Novato, CA, died on Sunday, February 3, 2008, after a valiant struggle with multiple myeloma. Rade was born in Doli, Dubrovnik, Croatia, in 1938. As a teenager he fled from communist oppression. In 1958 he found is way to the Gulf Coast and ultimately to relatives in New Jersey. However he was deported to Australia. There, he perfected his English and worked at a variety of jobs, including the craft of bartending. Rade settled in San Francisco in 1964. In 1969, with partner Michael Frowley, Rade opened the Pendulum Nightclub, located at 18th and Collinwood in San Francisco. For 36 years Rade owned and operated the Pendulum which was his life's work. He was a consummate businessman, who achieved great success in an extremely competitive field. Year after year, SF entertainment critics would acclaim the Pendulum as the place with "the best music and DJ's." His staff reflected Rade's own personality, always courteous, friendly and fun. Everyone was welcomed at the Pendulum. His aspiration for US Citizenship was finally attained in July of 1983, an event of great pride. When Rade was not working, he delighted in attending to his Novato garden, and in particular to his red roses and vegetables. To patrons, friends and family, Rade always brought energy and delightful conversation. He was never without a humorous story and loved to engage in discussions of all things political. Rade was an active contributor for AIDS research, the Special Olympics and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. He is survived by his former wife, Nancy Morais, of Novato; his goddaughters Anita Tepsic, Matea Marusic, Kaja Lynn Knapp; cousins Charles Karach and Mae Dickman of New Jersey; cousin Miho Marusic; and nephews Niko Kobila and Niksa Ratovick. There will be a Viewing held on Saturday, February 9, 2008, at Keaton's Redwood Chapel of Marin, 1801 Novato Blvd., Novato, 10:00-12:00. A Funeral to follow at 1:00 P.M., at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 1000 Cambridge St, Novato. There will be a celebration of Rade's life at Boca Steak & Restaurant, 340 Ignacio Blvd., Novato. In lieu of flowers the family and friends request that donations be made to the charity of your choice.

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Feb. 6 to Feb. 7, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Rade Ratkovic

4 Entries

Deborah Jaffe

February 12, 2008

My heart goes out to all those who knew and loved Rade. I'll always remember the interesting conversations I had with him. He was knowledgeable on so many topics, yet open to politely hearing other views and opinions. He was a first class gentleman.
I have to also honor and acknowledge his life partner; Nancy, who unselfishly took care of him these last two years. I can't even imagine what this was like...Being there 24 hours a day, taking care of his physical, emotional and medical needs. This is a love & caring beyond anything I could ever imagine. Yes, like others, I called to see how he was over the last 2 years, but Nancy was there every day. Nancy, there are angels on earth and you've proven it to all who knew & loved Rade. You've certainly earned your wings...(& enough for the whole state of CA).

God bless you,
Deborah Jaffe

Jo Knapp

February 7, 2008

My sympathies to Rod's friends and family. He was a wonderful and kind hearted man, who exemplified the best kind of citizenship and charity to so many. He was a gracious host and a part of many of my most precious memories. My heart goes out especially to Tag for the loss of a dear friend and Kaja for the loss of her Godfather. Nancy, words are not enough.

Judy Treece

February 7, 2008

My sympathy to Rod’s family and to Tag, Scott and Eileen. Rod was a kind and generous man. He holds a special place in my heart and the hearts of everyone in my family.

Tedra Treece

February 6, 2008

My sympathies to Rod’s family, close friends (especially Tag) and everyone who surrounded him and aided him the last couple of years when he was ill. He was my friend and a good friend to my family. We loved him. He will be missed. The last time I saw him, right before he became ill, he looked more handsome than ever and was full of fun. That last night, we raised a glass (or two) at Capp’s Corner. That’s how I will remember him, loving life and laughing often.

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