Obituary of Edward Joseph Ratza

In his 81st year during the early morning of July 2nd, 2017 at Hamilton General Hospital, Edward passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

Edward was born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario where he spent much of his life before retiring to Cambridge, Ontario. He is survived by the love of his life of 58 years Gisèle and his three daughters Jocelyne McDowell, Charlotte and Stephanie (Rob) and his eight grandchildren Jessica (Marlon), Ted (Kaitlyn), Matt, Abigail (Justin), Rebecca, Samantha, Olivia (Ben) and Zachary. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Shaureen Ratza, her three children Sharon (Guy), Janet (Graham) and Steve, brother-in-law John Rheaume and his daughter Lori (Allan) and sister-in-law Lily Gauld (Terry) and niece Francine Charbonneau and many great nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his father Stanley, his mother Cecelia (Kensy),  brother Alfred and infant sister Helen, son-in-law Larry McDowell, sister-in-law Marlene Rheaume, and niece Leslie Rheaume.

Ed had a passion for life.  Family was always his priority as he dedicated most of his time and energy supporting his girls and thrived on the care and love of his grandchildren.  He was a natural athlete and there wasn’t a sport he wouldn’t try, with hockey and golf being his most enjoyed. A lifelong educator, Ed chose a career in education over a life in professional hockey. He received a Bachelor of Arts at Laurentian University, a Bachelor of Education at Nipissing University, a Masters of Education and Supervisory Officer Qualifications from OISE.  He taught at St. Joseph School and was principal at St. Jerome and Sacred Heart.  Even after his retirement he spent a significant amount of time supply teaching for the Waterloo Separate School Board. He had a love for the outdoors with many summers spent at the cottage at Round Lake near Kirkland Lake and later at Horseshoe Lake in Minden.

Friends are invited to share their memories of Edward with his family during memorial visitation at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, on Thursday July 6, 2017 from 7-9 p.m. 

A Memorial service will be held at St. Clement’s RC Church, 745 Duke St., Cambridge, on Friday July 7, 2017 at 11 a.m.  Reception to follow in the church hall.   

Condolences for the family and donations to Wilfrid Laurier University may be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.