In Loving Memory of Mark Lyndsey Ratcliff

Mark Lyndsey Ratcliff, aged 67, suddenly passed away on April 15, 2024, in Lompoc, California. He was born on January 21, 1957, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Mark grew up in Santa Barbara, California, attending various elementary and middle schools before graduating from San Marcos High School. Mark's journey through life was marked by a spirit of adventure, a deep love for his family and friends, and a passion for helping others. He cherished his days surfing the waves and racing the streets in his muscle cars. After high school, Mark served as a heavy equipment mechanic in the United States Army.

In 1981, Mark embarked on a new chapter of his life when he married Stacy Ratcliff and moved to Santa Maria, California. There they started a family and welcomed their two beautiful daughters, Leah and Jennifer. Mark was a dedicated member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (Local 52), where he worked for over 20 years, culminating his tenure as a Superintendent with EG&G at Vandenberg Air Force Base. During this time, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to obtain his painting contractor's license, and he became the proud owner and operator of Rite Way Painting.

Outside of work, Mark found joy in his hobbies and passions. He spent time shooting pool, playing in dart tournaments, and enjoying the company of friends. Mark loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping trips and BBQs with his daughters, friends, and family. In retirement, he found solace at his home in Lompoc, California surrounded by his beloved partner of 22 years, Catherine Wilkerson, her supportive sister and Mark's dear friend Kimberly Wilkerson and their many cats, dogs, horses, and the occasional donkey! Mark filled his days working around the property on various home improvement projects. He was a lover of animals, enjoyed daily walks and bike rides with his loyal dogs. Mark was a devoted father and grandfather, always supporting and encouraging his children and cheering on his grandchildren at their many sporting events with unwavering pride.

Mark will be deeply missed by his loving, longtime partner Catherine Wilkerson, his former wife Stacy Ratcliff, his daughters Leah Goodnature, Jennifer Stuart, and his sons-in-law Alex Goodnature and Gene Stuart. Mark is also survived by his loving grandchildren Madison Carrasco, Natalie Carrasco, Leo Stuart, and Rendon Stuart, his siblings Stephen Ratcliff, Jennifer Dillon, and John Thompson, as well as his loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and countless friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Roberta Goodenough, his sister Marjorie Dowhower, his brother Mike Thompson, and his grandsons Jaxson and Liam Stuart.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Noon at the Summit Club (Rice Ranch development), located at 1112 Sage Crest Drive, Orcutt, California 93455. In honoring Mark's vibrant spirit, feel free to dress more casually and don't feel the need to wear black. There will be a brief but meaningful service with prayer, and we invite everyone to eat, share memories, and really great stories of Mark.

Mark is greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. His memory, warm heart, laugh, sarcasm, hugs, and great storytelling will remain in our hearts forever.

"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow."