Douglas Blaine Ratliff, Sr

DOUGLAS BLAINE RATLIFF, SR. September 23, 1927 ~ August 17, 2016 Douglas Blaine Ratliff, Sr. was born on September 23, 1927 to Hubert and Dorothy Ratliff. He grew up in Hollywood, California where he met the love of his life, Florine DiYorio at a young age. They were married on November 6, 1948 and made their home in Arleta, California where they had 3 children, Douglas Jr., Diane, and Linda. Doug settled into a career working at Litton where he eventually retired. He was the proud grandpa of 8 beautiful grandchildren, Alyssa, Damon, Michelle, Jason, Michael, Sarah, Stephanie, and Adam and 10 great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Zoey, Mason, Charlotte, Emily, Christian, and Jacob. With the marriage of his granddaughter Stephanie, he added a great-grandson Koa to his list, and with the marriage of Jason he added great-children Jaden and Gabriel. Doug and Florine moved from California to Washington state upon retirement. They settled into retirement enjoying bowling, golfing, traveling the world, and looking forward to visits from the children and grandchildren. Doug could be found working on a cross word puzzle, sudoku puzzle or watching Jeopardy. He was a lover the Seattle Seahawks and Mariners, fine dining, and a good beer. He enjoyed keeping his mind busy with an occasional chess game with one of his grandchildren and remained painfully witty for his age, cracking jokes with all who knew him. He found pleasure in teasing his long time love, Florine, and although he often annoyed her to no end, could always make her laugh, as she scolded him. It was after her passing 3 years ago that Doug was often heard saying, that he had lost his very best friend. He joined her in heaven on Wednesday, August 17th. His passing, although sudden, was welcomed by knowing that he was now with his beloved Florine. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Dorothy Ratliff; his childhood best friends and brothers-in-law, Paul and Sonny; and by his grandson, Damon Lee. He leaves behind a brother-in-law, numerous nephews, nieces, and friends who can all account just how wonderful, loving and kind he was. His loss, although heavens gain, will be felt throughout his family and within his circle of friends. We will miss you every day, daddy, grandpa, Uncle Doug, and treasured friend. Until we meet again. A small grave side service will be held Monday, August, 29th at 2:00p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, viewing at 1:00p.m. Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.

Douglas Blaine Ratliff, Sr

September 23, 1927 - August 17, 2016