Ronald G. Kratzer, 81, of Kutztown, died peacefully Wednesday, December 6, 2017, in his home surrounded by his family.  He was the loving husband of Shirley A. (Kroninger) Kratzer.  They were married March 30, 1957.  Born in Bronx, NY, he was a son of the late Frank and Laura (Kleppinger) Kratzer.  Ronnie was a member of Saint John's United Church of Christ, Kutztown.  Mr. Kratzer honorably and faithfully served our country as a United States Air Force veteran with service during the Korean War.  Ronald worked for Schaefer Brewery, then Stroh's Brewery, where he retired in 1998, after working over 26 years in the brew house and production lines.  Prior to his time at the brewery, he worked as an assistant foreman for 13 years at Lehigh Valley Dairy, Allentown. Ron was a member of Ray A. Master Post 217 American Legion, Topton; Kutztown Fire Company, No. 1, Kutztown; former member of Kutztown Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 839, Kutztown, where he served as President for four years, during the early 1990's.

In addition to his wife of 60 years, Shirley, Ronald is survived by daughters, Valarie A. (Kratzer), wife of, Keith I. Haines, Alburtis; and Lori S. (Kratzer) Saylor, Florida. Other survivors include sisters, Annamae (Kratzer) Ott, companion of Alvin Ott, Wescosville; Nancy (Kratzer), wife of, Robert Frey, Slatington; and Margaret (Kratzer), wife of, Frank Kurtz, Albrightsville.  There are three grandchildren, Philip Haines; Michael Blum, Esq.; and Katie Blum; two great grandchildren, Charlotte and Grace Haines.  In addition to his parents, Ronald was predeceased by two brothers, Frank Kratzer and Dennis Kratzer.

A public graveside service and inurnment will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. in Hope Cemetery, Kutztown, with Reverend Scott M. Sanders, officiating. Military Honors provided by Ray A. Master Post 217 American Legion Honor Guard, Topton, and the United States Air Force, will follow the religious services.  There is no public viewing.

The family requests contributions be made in loving memory of Ronald to the American Cancer Society, 498 Bellevue Avenue, Reading, PA 19605.

Ludwick Funeral Homes, Inc., Kutztown, is in charge of arrangements. Memories and  condolences may be shared at www.Ludwickfh.com.