Rob "Rat" Ratashak, 55, passed away Friday, July 11, 2014 doing what he loved. Born December 16, 1958 in San Rafael, California, Rob was the son of George and Shirley (Knight) Ratashak. Rob grew up and received his education in Ames, graduated from Ames High School and spent most of his free time in his mother's garage restoring or "driving" his notorious red 1967 Chevelle .
After high school, Rob worked in Ames and then served in the Navy during the early 1980's. Upon discharge from the Navy, Rob worked as a Systems Analyst for the Navy in San Diego, California. Returning to Iowa in 1996, he worked for Sunstrand and then moved on to Amcor Rigid Plastic (formally Ball Plastics) where he was employed for the several years. Most recently Rob was a member of the NRA, Iowa Firearms Coalition, ABATE, and the American Legion Riders, Post 737.
On September 16, 1994, Rob was united in marriage to LouAnn Downor. Rob loved to be on his motorcycle whether it was around town or across the state, he was an avid gun collector and passionately supported the Cyclones. Rob could be opinionated at times but Rob was fiercely loyal to the things he believed in and those he loved.
Survivors include his wife of 19 years, LouAnn (Downor); sister, Rhonda (Todd) Kibsgaard; niece, Robyn Kibsgaard; nephew, Jerrad Kibsgaard and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. His Pennsylvania family includes a step-daughter, Shatae Tarbell, father and mother-in-law, Anthony and Donna Downor; brother-in-law, Troy Downor; sisters-in-law, Tonette Diffenbacher, Starr Belden and Sheriee Downer; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Shirley; brother Jergan and his beloved dog Amber.
A private family burial will take place at the Ames Municipal Cemetery. There will be a Celebration of Life gathering beginning at noon on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at the Tip-Top Lounge on Lincoln Way in Ames. All family and friends are encouraged to stop by that afternoon and feel free to wear their favorite Harley-Davidson or Cyclone attire in memory of Rob.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared on Rob's page at www.Stevensmemorialchapel.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
July 18, 2014
Pam Black
I was saddened to hear of Rob's sudden death. The Ratashak family lived 2 houses from us on Melrose and were great friends to our family. Only God knows why he has taken both boys so young but now they are reunited. May those they left behind find comfort, especialy LuAnn and Rhonda.
July 17, 2014
I can't describe the loss I'm feeling at this moment....Rob, you were the best.....a true "Gent!"....you taught me so much.....things that I will carry with me for the rest of my life....my thoughts and prayers go out to Rhonda and her family, along with your beautiful wife and family, as well....may you rest in Peace.....and may Christ be with you........Sincerely,.....Kathy(Kat)Myers(Ames, Ia.)
July 17, 2014
Katie Hiatt-Braasch
The class of '77 lost a memorable character. On the highway to heaven there are no red lights and no speed limit. Rob, drive as fast as you want. My blessings to your family!
July 16, 2014
Kathy Loftin
R.I.P. my friend, I will miss you very much, You Michael and Nathan ride free, I can only imagine what mischief you guys are getting in to.
July 16, 2014
Katherine Eaves
Thank you, Sir, for taking me under your wing for the last 8 years. For Mosin day and giving me courage to ride my bike in a Memorial Ride. For play boxing at work. For harassing me and teaching me and being patient with me. You will be missed by so many of us and you'll definately be missed by me. Thank you for being my friend.
July 16, 2014
Ranee Gill (Hansen)
I sure wish I could be there at the Tip Top.
I had the biggest crush on him in high school. I remember his Chevelle.
He was a really nice guy.
Rat = You will be missed and enjoy that fantastic racing in heaven.
Don't know why you passed, but you are no longer in pain dear friend..
July 16, 2014
Allison Lillis
R.I.P Rat,You are missed by many, but none of us will ever forget you! Thoughts and prayers to all of your family and friends.
July 16, 2014
Deb Black
My heart goes out to LuAnn and Rhonda. Words can't express how sorry I am for your loss. He will be missed by all who knew him but never forgotten.
July 16, 2014
Bob Kennedy
Rat you will be missed, R. I.P friend.....
July 16, 2014
Steven Shafer
Rob was a very good friend to me when I was young. He let me “help” work on his Chevelle, by help I mean he let me hang around and get in his way, but he never got angry, and always had patience and kind words. He inspired me to get my own car, a 57 Chevy, which he would lend a hand with whenever I needed it.
Many of my fondest childhood memories involve cars and Rob. I am sure many people will miss him; He was a good man, whom I always admired.
July 16, 2014
starr belden
u will be missed now u are with the angel's and u will be watching over your wife louann forever god be with u
July 16, 2014
u will be missed now u are with the angel's and u will be watching over your wife louann forever god be with u
July 15, 2014
Tammy Solis
The Loss Of A Loved One
The loss of a love one is so hard to face,
you just want to hide,
go somewhere and escape!
But death is something,
we all must go through,
I know it's hard,
when it's someone you loved and knew.
Just know now,
he is in a better place,
no more hurt or pain shall he face.
It seems unfair and yes this is true,
but he is in Heaven now
watching over me and you!
God has called him home to rest!!
And he's being well taken care of
Because God knows best
July 15, 2014
Donde Moore
So sorry to hear about your loss! My heart felt sympathy goes out to the whole family!
July 15, 2014
Teresa Sunderland
A shock for us and a nightmare for his wife and sister. I spent my entire childhood intertwined with Rob and Jergy. Memories feel my heart and soul. We went from playing house and road to go-carts , football (ripped a hole through my ear) basketball and everything else an Iowa child did. Memories galore that included my siblings, Jergy and Rhonda. My heart goes out to all that he loved and loved him.
July 15, 2014
Randy Porter
Another great man gone to soon..RIP my friend...
July 15, 2014
Lacie Downor
I love u uncle Rob and u wish I could have been there to say good bye to you!!! I will see you again until then I will miss u and you will always have a special place in my heart! I love you
July 15, 2014
Jack Rorer
I knew Rob from Cajon Speedway. Great guy who will be missed by many. Thoughts and Prayers to Robs family and friends. R.I.P.
July 15, 2014
Bob Wickey
So sad... My heart goes out to all Robs family and friends. I was lucky enough to know him when he lived in San Diego. He was a great guy and will be truly missed. GODSPEED # 297 R.I.P. ROB......
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