Born June 14, 1932 in Acme Alberta, he was the oldest son of Richard and Martha Ratzlaff, brother to Edith, Eric, Betty and George. After completing grade school and teacher training there, he became a lifelong educator and learner, mostly in Vancouver, with a career that spanned 45 years, but never really ended. Along the way he picked up 2 Bachelor degrees (Theology, Ed.), a Masters (Ed.) and a PhD, and was a Professor at UBC for the last 20 years, leaving an astounding legacy as a teacher. In 1959 he married Viola Doerksen, and was a stalwart in 3 MB churches - Fraserview, Killarney and Bakerview, where he served on the boards, mostly as a moderator.
He had 3 sons of whom he was immeasurably proud and loved beyond compare along with their partners and grandchildren. He is remembered by his family as an anchor and source of relentless love and by many others for his irrepressible gentleness, kindness, and encouragement.
He is survived by sons Chuck and Doug, daughters-in-law Jane and Lesley, and grandchildren Brendan, Devon, Cameron and Nicole.
He was predeceased by his son Greg (2009), wife Vi (2017), his parents, and all of his siblings.
A service will be held September 18th at Bakerview MB, 2285 Clearbook Rd, Abbotsford at 1pm.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Mennonite Central Committee at mcc.org.
https://vancouversunandprovince.remembering.ca/obituary/harold-ratzlaff-1083213684
Please note, services were placed online in error. All services are private, invite only.
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