Edith was born in 1945 in Chilliwack, B.C. Her parents, Frank and Anna Dahl, provided her with a loving, nurturing environment. As a child Edith accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and later she was baptized and became a member of the Yarrow Mennonite Brethren church.
While studying at the University of British Columbia she met Heinz Ratzlaff and in June 1966, they were married. Edith’s educational pursuits resulted in her receiving a B. Ed. from U.B.C. and a M.A. from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary. She taught in the following school districts: Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Calgary and Howe Sound.
She had interests in writing, public speaking with Toastmasters, repairing furniture, singing and playing the piano. She also served faithfully in many church ministries, most recently before the Covid outbreak, serving on the Leadership team of the Seniors and Friends ministry at Highland M.B. Church in Calgary. She was a great support to her husband as they served as pastor couple in churches in Calgary, Squamish B.C. and Abbotsford B.C.
Edith is survived by her husband Heinz; children Keith (Lidija) Ratzlaff, Annette (Marcel) Matte, Julie (Dean) Hoff; grandchildren Brandon, Joshua, Ella, Thomas, William, Mia and Owen. She is also survived by five siblings.
Edith is predeceased by her son David, her parents, and three siblings.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Highland Mennonite Brethren Church, 4018 Centre B St NW, Calgary, Alberta on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 2:30 p.m.
If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made directly to the Mennonite Central Committee at https://mcc.org.
