RAATS Anthony

1932 ~ 2014
Mr. Anthony “Tony” Hermanus Marie Raats of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Henny Raats, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on Wednesday April 23, 2014 at the age of 81 years. Tony was born in Doesburg, Holland on August 19, 1932 to his parents Wilhelmus and Cornelia. Tony followed the love of his life to Canada in 1953 and married Henny Vredegoor the following year. Tony and Henny would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this year in August. Tony was a proud man who worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family. He worked for CP Rail, Lilydale, Swifts and Canada Packers before retiring due to health issues. During his retirement he enjoyed fishing with friends, restoring antique furniture and loved spending time with his family! Tony is survived by his eight children Willie, Corrie (Rodney) Kneeland, Helen (Randy) Ruaben, Tony (Juanita), Henry (Tiffany), Terry, Sylvia (Daryl) Tonin and Joe (Tara); fourteen grandchildren Kristy (Chris), Neil, Richelle (Aaron), Nicole, Tiffany (Adam), Shanda (Cory), Dana, Chrissy, Tia, Taylor, Dylon, Shalayne, Joey, Jaden, and Chloe; five great- grandchildren Taylor, Brynlee, Maya, Nico, Ainsley, and his loyal companions Sable and Tootsie. He is also survived by two sisters, Toos Schilderman, Sr. Corenelia; sisters -in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and their families. Tony was predeceased by four brothers Gus, Frank, Will, and Kees; two sisters Joanna and Wilhelmina; father and mother-in-law Anthony and Grada Vredegoor and numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Tony was loved and will be dearly missed by all. A Prayer Vigil will be held at 7:00pm on Friday April 25, 2014 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 St. South Lethbridge. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:00pm on Saturday April 26, 2014 at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 13 St. North Lethbridge, with Father Nathan Siray, celebrant. Send condolences at www.mbfunerals.com.