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Colorado Springs, Colorado

Patricia Ratterree Obituary

Patricia Ann (Bilak) Ratterree, 51, of Colorado Springs, died January 20, 2016, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania on April 16, 1964, the daughter of the late Eugene G. and Antoinette A. (Ewanitsko) Bilak.

Trish was a 1982 graduate of Bishop McCort High School, Johnstown, Pennsylvania, received her undergraduate degree from The Pennsylvania State University, and her graduate degree from Georgia College. Trish retired from the USAF after 20 years of service, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel. She was most recently employed as a Program Engineer at Peterson Air Force Base with the USAF Space Program. Trish was also an active member at church, and with many professional organizations.

Trish is survived by her husband, William Thompson, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; her son, Michael Ratterree and fiancé, Jessica Snyder, of San Antonio, Texas; step daughters, Elizabeth Thompson, Errin Thompson, Candace Thompson, and Cassandra Thompson, all of Cherryfield, Maine; grandchildren Michael Thompson, Braydon Thompson, JJ Thompson, Baileigh Thompson, Christie Thompson, Callee Thompson, all of Cherryfield, Maine; mother-in-law, Myrna Thompson of Cherryfield, Maine; brother, Mark Bilak (and wife, Deanna) of Johnstown, Pennsylvania; sister, Cindy Rogers (and husband, Mike) of Johnstown, Pennsylvania; sister-in-law, Tracy Bilak of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and nieces and nephews, Sean Rogers, Erin Rogers, Douglas Bilak, Marcus Bilak, and Megan Bilak.

She is also preceded in death by her brother, Doug Bilak.

Trish loved her life, family and friends. She loved to travel with her husband, visiting her family members throughout the world. She lived life to the fullest, always giving to others expecting nothing in return. She will be greatly missed by her family, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Celebration of Life, 3:00PM, Saturday, January 23, 2016, at the First Methodist Church, 1003 N Santa Fe Ave, Fountain, Colorado, 80817.

Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Creutzfeldt-Jakob-Disease (CJD) Foundation via www.cjdfoundation.org

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Jan. 23, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
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John Santacroce

February 1, 2016

Trish and I were lieutenants together in the USAF in the late 80's. She was a great officer and a good friend. She will be missed. My prayers are with her and her family.

Lauri Gail Jones

January 28, 2016

Michael, our families spent time with one another a very long time ago when you, Bobby, Caroline and my son, Sydney, were just little kids. Lisa Ratterree is my sister. The lovely picture of your mother here is exactly how I recall the Trish I knew those many years ago. The smile that lit up the room, for sure. You did not get enough time here on this earth with your mother. However now she's your angel.

Mike Azar

January 26, 2016

Trish was a high school classmate at Bishop McCort in Johnstown. I will always remember her smile and easy going nature. My condolences on your loss.

Brad Marcum

January 25, 2016

I was so sorry to hear of Trish passing. I worked with her in the mid to late 80s in Colorado Springs. She was a very kind, considerate and fun person and a great USAF Officer. My condolences to her family.

Kevin Ott

January 24, 2016

I was shocked to hear of Col Ratterree's passing. I enjoyed being her senior enlisted leader at Det 4, AFOTEC. She was a great leader, mentor, and always had a smile on her face.
CMSgt(retired) Kevin Ott

Scott M.

January 24, 2016

Trish and I were drummers together in the BMHS band. We were all pretty close, and had some serious jam sessions. RIP, Trish...miss ya!

Michael & Colleen Bracchi

January 23, 2016

Proud to have known Trish, she was a pleasure to work with. She was kind-hearted, friendly and enjoyed sharing stories about her family. She will be greatly missed in building 1 and it won't be the same without her. She will be remembered for her quick wit and smile. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family. May she rest in peace.

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