Condolences
My condolences to your family....she was a special person.
Our family moved to Highwood in 1956 (the day before my 1st birthday). Mrs. Ratsoy was my grade 1 teacher at Colonel Irvine (1961). I remember her as a patient and very caring person. I was so fortunate to have her as my first teacher....she influenced my positive attitude towards learning. I recall being terribly disappointed after grade 1 that she would not be my grade 2 teacher.
Fond memories always.
Alfred Sailer BSc (Pharm), DDS, MBA
I first knew Mrs. Ratsoy as my kindergarten teacher. She had the most amazing puppets - handmade by her. And I remember having baby chicks in class. She made out time truly magical. Later I learned that my mom and Doreen went to school together as teens which made me feel an extra special connection. She is a person I have always admired. So many people are better for her thoughtful and caring ways. Karen Perl-Pollard
Mrs. Ratsoy was my kindergarten teacher in 1976/77 when my family moved to Highwood. I still remember the little wooden house, the painting station, the little leather book bags, the telephone booth, the reading nook and that gigantic metal slide on the playground. I also attended Pleasant Heights as a teen with her. We, Karen, Tammy, KJ, Gail and I got together with her over the years into our more than adulthood with families of our own. I now teach kindergarten myself in large part because of my kinder experience with her. A lovely lady through and through, such a privilege to know her and love her. Sincere condolences. Carol (nee Jack) Schmidt.
So sorry to hear of the passing of Doreen, a great friend to my mom, Audrey Fryer.
Deepest condolences,
Gina Fryer and family
My deepest condolences to the Ratsoy family. I feel privileged to have met both Mr. and Mrs. Ratsoy over the years. Doreen was my only facebook friend over the age of 90. She was such a lovely person and will always be missed. My heart goes out to you all at this time.
My deepest condolences for your loss. I had the pleasure of getting to know Doreen over the last decade while serving on the board at the Highwood Community Association. She was a true pillar of the community and championed such initiatives as the Strawberry Tea and backpack program. Highwood will deeply miss this amazing woman!
I met Doreen ~3 yrs ago when she handed off the Highwood Community “Operation Backpack” initiative (filling 4 backpacks/year for street youth each Christmas) that she’d been involved in (and I think, instrumental in starting/keeping going) for 26 or so yrs. I was so impressed by with how with-it she still was at 89 yrs of age, and all the info and bags of amassed donations was impeccably organized. She seemed to me a very kind, thoughtful and motherly soul. Highwood Community was lucky to have her live here, and will miss her.
So sorry to hear the passing of your Mother.She was a special Lady.
I fondly remember ‘Mrs. Ratsoy’ as my kindergarten teacher of 60 years ago and as one of my Mother’s close friends throughout my life. I recall the many kindnesses both Doreen and Al showed toward my Mother as she aged and I know she was always grateful to have them as friends. On behalf of myself and my family, I offer condolences to Doreen’s family at this difficult time. May your fond memories of your Mom help you recall better times. My thoughts and prayers are with you. David Fryer.
Our condolences to Doreen’s family. We have lost a Highwood icon. Doreen was an amazing people person, an engaging member of our community and such a lovely person to visit with! I will dearly miss walking by her house in the evenings and waving hello and on bonus occasions having a visit on the sidewalk. May her community spirit live on in all of us that were fortunate enough to have time with her.
In loving memory of Doreen Ratsoy, a cherished educator, neighbor, and friend. Known affectionately as Mrs. Ratsoy to generations of Highwood residents, she touched countless lives through her dedication to teaching and her vibrant presence in the community. Her warm spirit and infectious smile made her a beloved social butterfly in Highwood, bringing joy to all who knew her.
This last year my family had the privilege of living across the street from Doreen and she became more than just a neighbor – she became a dear friend. Sharing beverages and laughter together, she welcomed us into her life with open arms, and her generosity extended to our children, who delighted in her treats and kindness. I will miss seeing her in her sunroom.
We are grateful for the blessings of knowing Doreen throughout our lives, and we take comfort in the memories we shared, especially the joy she experienced in meeting our precious kiddos and telling g me stories of when my mom was little. Though she may be gone, her legacy of love and laughter will forever remain in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Doreen.
Copyright © Funeraltech 2019