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Lawrence Ratto
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Lawrence Anthony (Bob) Ratto, 85, of Escalon passed away on Sunday, July 27.

Born in Alameda to Lawrence and Julia Ratto on March 27, 1923, he was one of four children, with two brothers and one sister.

He attended Alameda High School, was in the Army from 1943 to 1945 in the Signal Corp. Medals received were European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal. He also spent 12 years in the California National Guard, coming out as a Sergeant.

After leaving the military, he was a heavy haul truck driver for Bigge, worked as a produce manager for Shaws Market in Escalon and retired from Fairbanks Trucking in 1985.

He married Pauline Copin on Nov. 30, 1946 and she preceded him in death in January 1992.

He was active in Kiwanis, also the Lions Club, serving as president from 1968 to 1969.

He coached Babe Ruth baseball, was an instructor in karate, enjoying playing golf and was also a member of the Escalon United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Rose Ratto of French Camp, daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Larry W. Elliott; three granddaughters, Denise Berchtold and husband Craig, Erica Biagi and husband Mike, Shannon LaMunyon and husband Steve; four great-grandchildren, Trenton and Emma Berchtold, Cheyenne Lacy, Joey Ratto, all of Escalon; step grandson Andy Siler; step granddaughter Amy Siler; and step great-granddaughter Emily Skeen of Modesto.

He touched many and will be deeply missed.

Graveside services were Friday, Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. at Burwood Cemetery, Escalon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Escalon Community Ambulance, P.O. Box 212, Escalon, CA 95320; the United Methodist Church, 2000 Jackson Ave., Escalon, CA 95320; or Hospice of San Joaquin County, 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton, CA 95204-1953.

Deegan Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

The Escalon (Calif.) Times

Aug. 6, 2008