A century of faithfulness: Celebrating Barbara Ratter at 100

On November 2, 1925, Barbara Grasl was born in Detroit, Michigan, to parents who had immigrated from a German village in Romania, at that time part of Hungary, in search of a better life. Raised in a home rooted in Catholic tradition, Barbara’s early years were shaped by the resilience and values of her immigrant parents. But it was a moment of divine intervention that would change the course of her family’s spiritual journey forever.

When Barbara’s older brother, Matthew, developed a mass on his neck, a concerned friend brought a pastor to their home to pray, and to their amazement, Matthew was healed. That miraculous moment led the family to the German Pentecostal church, where they remained committed members for the rest of their lives.

In 1946, at age 21, Barbara married Arnold Ratter from Benton Harbor, Michigan. That began a lifetime of ministry and service together, along with raising three children: Beverly, Paul and Sharon. Arnold accepted the pastorate at Bridgman Assembly of God, a German District church in Bridgman, Michigan, where he served faithfully for over 30 years. At his side, Barbara held many roles: pianist, organist, Sunday School teacher, church bookkeeper and beloved camp cook. Her devotion to the church was not just a duty; it was a calling.

As just one of Barbara’s many talents, she was a gifted cook and baker, known especially for her famous German Christmas cookies, lovingly prepared each holiday season for sale and as cherished gifts. Her kitchen was always bustling with warmth, tradition and the sweet scent of spices and sugar.

Barbara’s work ethic extended far beyond the home. She began working at age 16 in a dime store, before moving to an assembly line job and later a secretarial position. After starting a family, she worked part-time until her children were in school; then in 1965, she began her career with Lakeshore Public Schools in Stevensville, where she served faithfully until her retirement in 1989.

Since Arnold’s passing in 1995, Barbara has continued to live with strength and independence, embracing widowhood with the same grace and grit that have defined her life. At 100 years old, she still tends her garden, cans the harvest and even runs her weed eater at her cottage behind her daughter’s home. Her energy and determination are as enduring as ever.

But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Barbara isn’t what she’s done—it’s who she is. A woman of unwavering faith, she’s always been quick to share the question most important to her: “Do you know Jesus as your Savior?”

For Barbara Ratter, that question has never been about judgment—it’s about love, hope, and a lifelong commitment to the faith that has guided her through every season of life. As she celebrates a full century on this earth, her legacy of service, generosity and deep faith continues to inspire all who know her.

We at the Globe join Barbara’s family in saying, “Happy 100th birthday, Barbara!” Readers wishing to send a birthday greeting may do so in care of the Branson Globe (P.O. Box 652, Hollister, MO 65673), for delivery to her family for this special event. 

Congratulations on a life well-lived, and still very much in motion!