Therman "Therm" R. Ratliff, age 77 of Frostproof, Florida, formerly of Defiance, passed away on December 30, 2023 at CHP Inpatient Hospice Center in Defiance. He was born on November 26, 1946 to Curtis and Emil Ratliff in Grundy, Virginia. He studied at the University of Pikeville and Northwest State Community College. On July 22, 1972 he married his sweetheart, Sharon McGuire, who survives. Therman worked at General Motors for 30 years where he worked production and lead instructional classes for the UAW until his retirement in 1995. He was also a 32nd degree Mason. In his retirement years he delivered campers for companies all over the country, some as far as Alaska, that fed his love of travel. He especially loved traveling out west. During his working years the summers were spent at his favorite campground and lake in London, Kentucky. Being an avid boater, this was the prefect spot to savor the warm July sun while camping with his friends and family. He later became a host at that campground. His love for being outdoors lead his passion for sports, including golf, he practiced his swing often, Nascar racing and scuba diving. The University of Kentucky basketball, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Steelers and The Ohio State Buckeyes football team were all his favorites. His love of football fueled his desire to co-found the little league football teams, "the Lions" and "the Chargers" for Tinora Schools. He was a beloved coach. Even decades after his coaching career ended, the students he mentored still referred to him "Coach Therm". He also coached little league and pony league baseball teams. He loved being involved in athletics. Therman never met a stranger. He loved to talk and would make sure to at least say "hello", that would often turn into a 20 minute conversation. He always had a smile on his face. Therman absolutely loved being with his children and grandchildren. He would turn into a kid again every time they were around. Therman had a competitive side as well. Even if it was just playing cards, he enjoyed winning. Therman is survived by his loving spouse of 51 years Sharon, his children, Glen (Cheryl) McGuire, Jennifer (Daniel) Wink and Chadd Ratliff, all of Defiance and Carla (Scott) Howard, of Harvard, Illinois, eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, along with his dear friends of 50 years, Edgar and Martha Bowling. He was preceded in death by his parents. a granddaughter, Grace McGuire and brothers, Arnold, Dan and Donnie Ratliff. A Celebration of Therman's Life will be held at a later date. Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements. Memorials are suggested to the CHP Inpatient Hospice Center of Defiance.

CHP Defiance Area Hospice Inpatient Center
6825 St Rt 66, Defiance, OH 43512,
Tel: 419-782-4131