John "Jr" Ratliff

John “JR” William Ratliff passed away March 30, 2023.  He died peacefully in his Denver home surrounded by family.  John is survived by his significant other Linda Leonard; his sisters Shirley McBroom; Debbie Lynn (Brad) Hunt; nieces Traci Butzen; Toni Lynn Pascal; nephew-in-law Bob Butzen and great-niece Tristan Butzen. Preceding him in death are his parents Alvin “Bud” and Mary Shirleen Ratliff. His mother passed only hours prior to John.

Born March 3, 1958, in Denver, Colorado. John grew up in Lakewood and graduated from Bear Creek High School in 1976.

John’s early career was construction, helping his dad build two apartment buildings and a warehouse.  However, city life was not for John, he headed west to Aspen to work for T-Lazy-7 Ranch as a foreman providing guided tours on snowmobiles and horseback. He was the best chef heading up campfire dinners for the guests.  The view from his front porch in Aspen was the Maroon Bells.  John eventually left Aspen to relax in Fairplay. He worked for the City of Breckenridge and South Park City Museum.  He also  started a handyman business working around town. In 2017, John was on the move again, returning to Denver to join the love of his life, Linda.

John’s greatest enjoyment was being outdoors snowmobiling, dirt bike riding and all things nature.

Never being one to miss a good time, John’s laugh and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life, celebrating the lives of John and his mother Shirleen, will be held at a later date.