Pastor Phillip Kratzer

Pastor Phillip Sheridan Kratzer, 80, passed away May 5, 2013, at Mesun Hospice in Lawrenceville, Ga.

He was born Jan. 1, 1933, the son of William Sheridan and Mary (Warfield) Kratzer.

Phillip was a Newton High School graduate. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. After his service to his country, Phillip lived in Los Angeles for 13 years, during which time he worked for the Police Department.

In 1972, he returned to Newton.

He was ordained as a minister and pastored the Faith Temple Church of God in Christ in Newton. In addition, he was employed by the City of Newton.

Survivors include a son, Aaron and wife Tandy Kratzer; daughter, Bridget Kratzer, all of Lawrenceville, Ga.; four sisters, Velma Jackson, Margaret Jones, Esther Tuggle and Ruby Kratzer; five grandchildren, Roderick Kratzer, Shelly Kratzer, William Bell, Briana Kratzer and Taylor Kratzer; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth Kratzer, and his older brother, Calvin Kratzer.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, May 9, 2013, from 3 to 9 p.m. at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton, with the family present from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be Friday, May 10, 2013, at 1 p.m. at Petersen Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton.