Obituary of John Arnold Ratkowski

Surrounded by family, John passed away peacefully on November 13th, 2022, at the age of 82. He has now been reunited with his beloved wife Karen who predeceased him. Loving and cherished father of daughters Wendy Darby (Grant), and Tracy Gowland (Bill McLeod). Proud and much-loved grampa to Lauren, Callum, Holly, and Nick. Also survived by his siblings, Wilma, Eileen, Morris and Sharon, and sister-in-law, Gloria Weir. Predeceased by his brother Clarence. 

John was a teacher with the Hamilton Board of Education for 35 years, and when he wasn’t in the classroom, he enjoyed travelling with Karen, family, and friends.  

Thanks to the staff at The Village of Wentworth Heights, and especially the Stonechurch Neighbourhood staff for their excellent care and compassion. 

John will be remembered on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at the Royal Canadian Legion, at 435 Limeridge Rd. East, Hamilton. Friends will be received at 11 a.m., with a Celebration of Life service at 11:30 a.m., followed by refreshments. Cremation has taken place.  

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated by the family.  Notes of sympathy and condolence may be made at www.donaldvbrown.ca

“Take me home, country roads, 

To the place I belong…”