Richard Bratz's Obituary
Richard William Bratz, 78 of Centerville passed away Saturday, November 24, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center in Centerville while surrounded by family. Richard was born on October 16, 1940 in Centerville to Herman & Kathryn (Crist) Bratz. He received his education from Centerville High School graduating in 1958. On August 28, 1959 Richard was united in marriage to Lanna Forsythe at the Methodist Church in Mystic. To this union came four children: Mark, Mike, Todd and Michele. Richard began his working career at Thayne Bryant's Skelly Station, while working there, he also drove an Anderson Erickson delivery truck. In 1974 Richard purchased Mr. Bryant's Skelly station and operated there until Richard founded Bratz Skelly at the present location on Labor Day weekend in 1978. This station later transitioned to Getty, Texaco, and is now Bratz Shell. Richard worked daily at the station, surrounded by his family. He was a provider for his family and a staple of the community. Richard was a Mason and a member of Jackson Lodge #42 in Centerville. He was also a Kaaba Shriner. Richard enjoyed being a member of the Elks Club until its closing. Richard was an animal lover, he especially loved watching his birds at home and playing with Milo, his dog, and his grand-dogs Penelope and Watson. When summer arrived, Richard always grew a large garden and canned vegetables. Sunday's were spent at home with friends and family, often times with a little "garage therapy". He loved having friends and family out in his garage for relaxing conversation and NASCAR. Richard was best known for the two things dear to him in his life, working hard at his business and his family. He cherished the moments spent with his grandchildren. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Lanna Bratz, four children; Mark Bratz (Marcia), Mike Bratz (Carrie), Todd Bratz (Anna), Michele Busch (Rob), grandchildren: Jenni Bratz-Kurzer (Jason), Brandon Bratz (Lynsey Winkel), Maddison Bratz-Stubblefield (Andrew), Tucker Bratz (Kaylee Stansberry) Johnny Wright, Brooke Bratz, R.T. Bratz, Courtney Campbell (Jeremy), Payton Busch, Katie Busch (Seth Hoeger), great grandchildren; Leighton Kurzer, Hayden Bratz, Treyton Bratz, Landyn Bratz, Rylee Campbell, brother; Tommy Bratz (Marilee), sister in law, Lona Bratz and numerous extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Robert Bratz, grandson, Jonathon Bratz and by his wife's parents, Leighton & Flora Forsythe. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm, Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at Thomas Funeral Home with Rev. Brian Hargrave officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Oakland Cemetery. There will be a dinner following the service at The Majestic Theatre Ballroom. Visitation will be Tuesday, November 27, 2018 at Thomas Funeral Home with the family present from 5-8:00 pm. Memorials may be given to the Shriners Hospital for Children or FurEver Friends and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfh.com or facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Richard Bratz please visit our Sympathy Store. Cemetery Details Oakland Cemetery E. State St. & N. 21st St.
Centerville, IA 52544 Visitation NOV 27. 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (CST) Thomas Funeral Home - Centerville 501 North 18th StreetCenterville, IA 52544[emailprotected] Funeral Service NOV 28. 2:00 PM (CST) Thomas Funeral Home - Centerville 501 North 18th StreetCenterville, IA 52544[emailprotected]
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?