Thomas Brian Ratigan

Lieutenant Colonel, Thomas Brian Ratigan, born on October 11, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, peacefully ascended into heaven on June 14, 2023. Aside from being a distinguished and highly decorated man of the military, he will always be remembered for his quick wit, engaging sense of humor, and profound ability to find a teachable lesson in the least studious of moments.

Colonel Ratigan, otherwise known as Husband, Dad, Grandfather, treat giver to all dogs, or simply Tom, was born son of Eleanor and Edward Ratigan. Tom was the third of four children and often spoke fondly of his time spent growing up in New York. Tom was a writer for his high school paper, a team manager for each his school baseball and football team, and star/captain of his high school golf team. While in high school, Tom would spend his summers caddying at the Sagamore Golf Resort in Lake George, New York – once even for President Richard Nixon.

Following high school, Tom attended Florida Southern to play college golf and tangentially work on his studies. Tom eventually enlisted in the military and completed his educational endeavors with a Masters Degree. While serving as a signal officer in the U.S. Army, Tom received twelve respective honorary service awards; to include, the bronze star, the Vietnam Campaign medal, and the meritorious service medal. While rightfully celebrated for his career achievements and service to the country he loved, his most spoken about moment in the military came on July 4, 1985, when he hit a hole in one while playing at, and for, Norton Air Force Base.

Tom’s hobbies not only included playing the game of golf, but also attempting to reap his riches in the stock market as an avid trader to keep his mind tidy during his later years. In retirement, Tom enjoyed watching his favorite grandchild (Kendyl), not to be confused with favorite grand-adult, learn to play piano, ride horses, and excel in Catholic school. He also enjoyed Saturday date nights listening to his favorite Irish tenor, Danny O’Donnell.

Tom enjoyed retirement, and a long-wedded life, with his beloved wife – Hope Ratigan. Tom and Hope were married on September 9, 1961 and honeymooned in Hawaii while he was in the service. Tom and Hope had four children: namely, Theresa Ratigan, Catherine Baudoux (John) Tamara Rosbaugh (Harold), and Monique DeGraauw (Roland). Tom was survived by his four children and his wife, who he professed, while on the last day of his life, “was the absolute love of his life” while they held hands in the presence of their youngest daughter. Tom is also survived by his younger brother, Edward Ratigan, and grandchildren.

In passing, Tom is likely enjoying his favorite golf tournament (the US Open) this week, while eating his favorite meal (Hamburger, any type of potato, and a Milkshake), looking forward to a promising season for the New York football Giants, and enjoying the fact that his family can support his beloved wife and rejoice not only in his great professional achievements, but profound personal accomplishments.