MB Herald, October 2024

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 Saviour, 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 an M.A. from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary. She taught in the following school districts: Abbotsford, B.C.; Chilliwack, B.C.; Calgary; and Howe Sound, B.C.

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, on the leadership team of the Seniors and Friends ministry at Highland MB 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.

Birth: March 15, 1945

Birthplace: Chilliwack, B.C.

Death: February 19, 2024

Parents: Frank & Anna Dahl

Married: Heinz Ratzlaff, June 1966

Family: Heinz; children Keith (Lidija), Annette (Marcel) Matte, Julie (Dean) Hoff; 7 grandchildren; 5 siblings

Church: Highland MB, Calgary

Baptism: Yarrow (B.C.) MB