It's time to say goodbye to Ratz.

[BROCCOLI]

Bob "Ratz" Bratton died this morning. His upbeat demeanor and his evocative whistle will remain with me. Ratz survived the Korean war with lots of lumps.
He ignored them. He raised a great family and leaves many friends who are enriched by having known him.

Goodbye Ratz.

Craig

[Matt Dagostino]

Rat Man

My condolences..........Rat man and his cane will live on forever. I never remember anything but positive energy and laughs coming out of him!!

Matt D.

[ryan_4z]

I met Rats when I was like 12 years old. Even then, it was obvious the years had been hard on him. I remember being blown away by his fiery spirit, which couldn't be restrained by a beaten down body. Years later, seeing Rats at races in Florida, knowing his health was in constant decline, I always found it amazing that his personality never seemed to change. I didn't know Rats well, or see him often, but he made a strong impression on me. Some men age with their bodies. Rats, I don't think, was one of those men. Rats, I think, stayed young forever, somewhere in that body beat to hell.

You will be missed, and always remembered, Rats, you crazy, old SOB.

[Hydroglobe17J]

My condolences to the family.......Race in Peace!

[csh2z]

Rest in peace, Ratz. He outlived his expectations by decades. Living every day as though it was his last. Always appreciating life, from that day in Korea when he woke up, crippled and riddled with bullets, on a pile of dead bodies. A real live war hero and proud American and Marine until the end. He was an amazing man living life to its fullest in spite of his disabilities. A father of six great kids and a source of inspiration to the rest of those that knew him. Regardless of his daily pain and challenges he rarely complained, was always upbeat and usually the center of attention due to his great sense of humor and inviting personality. He was a great man, father, husband, friend and American. The kind of person we all should aspire to be. I'm lucky to have known him.
To Jeanette, Bobby, Jack, Laurie, Kurt, Patty & Dawn,
You all know how Ratz wants to be remembered, grieve some but celebrate his life and cherish the memories. As the rest of us will. Farewell Ratz, & thanks for being you.

[John Schubert]

Robert "Ratz" Bratton

Rest in peace my friend. WE who raced in Region 3 in the 50's & 60's became dear friends with Ratz. Many parties with Ratz at races & at his home. What fun we had because of his special personality & love of life despite his injuries & lead still in his body. He was told that he could never raise a family or god forbid race a boat. He & Jeanette raised a great family & he excelled at racing a BSH making the cover of Boat Sport. He will be missed by us all.

[xcsp700]

I always remember him walking up the pits in the morning whistling I can still remember hearing that tune in my head. Condolences from Tower family

[champhotrod]

Goodbye Ratz.

Bob "Ratz" Bratton died this morning. His upbeat demeanor and his evocative whistle will remain with me. Ratz survived the Korean war with lots of lumps.
He ignored them. He raised a great family and leaves many friends who are enriched by having known him.

Goodbye Ratz.

Craig

Craig,
So sorry to hear!
From a Midwest buddy

Cooper

[spud62w]

Got to know him when he was over at Ponch's in flordia. Pretty sure those two are up to telling story's and having a wonderful time. Thanks for letting me get to know you for just a small time. RIP

[Robert M Keogler]

Goodbye Ratz

In the short period of time that I spent racing out of Region 3, I met many wonderful people. One of these, that always stood out was Ratz. Every time I saw him at a race he always made me feel great about the boat racing family. I will miss him.

My condolences to Jeanette, Bobby, Jack, Laurie, Kurt, Patty & Dawn

Barbara & Bob Keogler

[PopPop]

Thanks

Heaven is in for a wild time. Here comes Ratz! Thank you Ratz, for all you gave us; your laugh, your smile and your love of life. You’ll be remembered fondly by all that were lucky enough to know you.
To Jeanette, Bobby, Jack, Laurie, Kurt, Patty and Dawn, my very best thoughts.
Phil Doerle and family