Peter H. Ratz, 61, of Slatington, died Sunday, February 8, 2009 at the Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township. He was the husband of Linda J. (Saylor) Ratz. The couple celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary last July 26.

Born in Wolfsburg, Germany, on December 13, 1947, Peter was the son of Malinda (Klatt) Welch and the late Adolph Ratz. He was employed as a maintenance electrician at Gardner Cryogenics, Air Products & Chemicals, Inc. Department, in Bethlehem. He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Survivors: In addition to his loving wife and mother; son, Joshua P. Ratz , attending Temple University, Philadelphia; brother, Francis Ratz of Schnecksville; sisters, Heidi M. Hertzog and Alice Belcak, both of Bethlehem, Erika Shoemaker of Walnutport, Karen Case and Sharon Wardenski, both of Allentown; predeceased by brothers, Reinhard Ratz and Joachim Ratz and a sister, Gertraud Hertzog.

Services: 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 14, 2009 in the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., 4906 Route 309, Schnecksville with the Rev. Michael J. Bodnyk officiating. Family and friends may call 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the funeral home. Private interment.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Joshua P. Ratz Education Fund and/or Charity of Donor's Choice c/ o the funeral home, P.O. Box # 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.