Ronald “Ron” Ratola

Peacefully passed away in the VA hospital, Palo Alto, California at the age of 56. Born in Biloxi Mississippi, Ron was the 2nd child of John and Mary (Chalfant) Ratola.  A Veteran of the US Navy, Ron served as an Engineman, aboard the USS Concord and later at Port Services, Naval Station, Mayport FL.  Ron was a true jack-of-all-trades and master of many.  No challenge was to great, or cause to small that he couldn’t and wouldn’t tackle headfirst and conquer victoriously.  His love for life included fishing, music and travel, but his passion was cooking.  He could always “whip up something,” that would inevitable be a culinary masterpiece, thereby earning him the legendary title, “Ron Ratatouille;” given to him by his fellow Legionnaires.  Ron found his true calling when he became a Legionnaire. He was an active member of: The American Legion, Post 564; The Sons of the Legion; and The Fleet Reserve, until his death.  Ron was also a member of the coveted 40/8’s, and was honored to have been chosen for and serve in the elite position of “Chef de Gare”.  Life for Ron truly was like a box of chocolates, “you never know what you’re going to get,” but whatever the day gave to Ron, Ron gave it right back!  His passion for giving and serving ran deep in his soul. His love for his country was boundless, and his love for his family and friends, undeniable.  Ron was a spirited man with a zest for life. He will be greatly missed, forever remembered, and eternally loved. There will never be another man like him.