Ratcliff, Edwin James 'Jim'

Edwin James “Jim” Ratcliff, 79, of Cedar Rapids, died Sept. 25, 2012, at St. Luke's Hospice. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories, with a visitation starting at 9 a.m.

Jim was born June 13, 1933, in Lohrville, Iowa, to Hazel and Walter Ratcliff. Entering Simpson College in 1950, he became editor of the school newspaper, member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, and Sigmatary Delta National honorary English fraternity. At Simpson he met his first and only love, Nancy Sisam, from Des Moines. They were married Dec. 20, 1953. After college came two years of military service. He served in Germany for 18 months and his duties were such that his wife could join him. They traveled extensively throughout Europe.

Jim worked 24 years at The Gazette and then joined his wife for the next 11 years in their own business, a clothing store called Ratcliff's.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Mark.

He leaves behind his wife, Nancy; daughter, Jennie (Dennis) Park; grandchildren, Matt and Taylor Park; and brother, Roger (Millie) Ratcliff from Newton.

Jim will be remembered for his sharp sense of humor and love for family and friends.

Published Sept. 27, 2012 in The Gazette