Dennis Ragatz, 81, of Aberdeen, and formerly of Frankfort, died Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at his home in Aberdeen. Dennis was cremated and his memorial service will be Friday, February 20, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Redfield, with military rites to follow at the church. Reverend Marty Toepke-Floyd will officiate. There will be a time for lunch and fellowship after the service. Cremains burial will be at a later date. www.thelenfuneralhome.com

Dennis George Ragatz was born July 2, 1933 in Frankfort to Edwin and Mabel (Luxton) Ragatz. He grew up in the Frankfort area and Frankfort School graduating in 1951. He attended South Dakota State University for one year. Dennis served in the United States Army from 1953-1955, stationed in Germany. Dennis was united in marriage to Erlene Paul on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 1956 in Doland. They made their home on their farm near Frankfort, where they raised their four children.

Dennis enjoyed gardening, woodworking, reading and spending time with his family.

Blessed to have shared in his life are his wife Erlene; his daughters: Donna (Dane) Lambert of Frankfort; Mary (David) Jessen of Redfield; and Denene (Donnie) Miles of Aberdeen; nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren, with another on the way. He is also survived by his siblings: Wayne (Carol) Ragatz of Frankfort; Norma Ganje of Aberdeen; and Myron (Charlene) Ragatz of Aberdeen and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Paul, and his brothers-in-law: Bill Ganje, Everett Paul, Marvin Paul and Merlin Paul.