Michael L Ratner

Michael Lee Ratner was born on Aug. 18, 1941, in Bronx, N.Y. A loving husband, father and grandfather, he passed away on Sunday, March 13, 2023. Michael was always an idea man and entrepreneur. He co-founded Valcour Marina, ran a printing business, sold boats, managed a marina and co-founded a furniture store with his wife Gayle.
A proud member of the Crew team at Jacksonville University, graduating from Plattsburgh State with a Master's Degree, he was a teacher, who became a Superintendent of schools. He was tremendously dedicated to his community. He was a firefighter at three fire departments, spanning more than 50 years, spent six years in the U.S. Army Reserves, was a member of the Masonic Lodge, a founding member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, worked in support of local politicians and ran for public office himself.
Michael was always smiling, always had a positive attitude even in the face of adversity. Always good for a laugh and was eager to help anyone who needed him. He was an avid boater and skier. As a runner he completed numerous 5k, 10k and half marathon races until the progression of Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) forced him to hang up his running shoes in the mid 90's. Still, he never complained.
Michael is survived by his wife Gayle, son Ian, daughters Rebecca and Pamela, seven grandchildren and former wife Sharon.
The world will deeply miss Michael and his warm smile, but we are comforted that he can now run again.
Funeral services will be Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 2:00pm at the Brown Funeral Home, Plattsburgh.