George Ratchford

George A. Ratchford, 74, of East Freedom, died Tuesday morning at his home. He was born in Gallitzin, son of the late Philip Ralph and Genevieve (Angus) Ratchford. He married Doris Walter July 15, 1973, in Gallitzin. She preceded him in death in November, 2004. Surviving are his son Allen Ratchford of Ebensburg, a step-daughter Jacquelyn Forsht and husband Bill of Altoona; a step-son Stephen Wilkinson of East Freedom, one sister, Jane Inks and husband Paul of Irwin, numerous nieces and nephews, and a special friend Glatha Glass. He was preceded in death by his son Michael Ratchford, five sisters: Ida Jean McGuire, Lois Mastalski, Wanda Ruth Pollard, Sally Vogelsong, and Mary Catherine Tutko; one brother Collins Fitzsimmons. George retired in 2000 as a corrections officer at Smithfield SCI, and prior to that he worked for Veeder Root for 30 Years. He was a graduate of Gallitzin High School, and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He attended Hicks United Methodist Church in Duncansville. He was a member of the Bavarian Aid Society and the Duncansville VFW, and enjoyed bowling, Steelers football, and dancing. Friends will be received from 2-4 Pm Saturday, May 22, 2010, at Mauk & Yates Funeral Home, Inc., where a funeral service will be held at 4 PM, with Rev. Paul Inks, officiating. The private interment will be in Veteran's Circle at Grandview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics, Attn: Web Gifts, 1133 19th Street NW, 12th Floor, Washington, DC 20036-3604