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Anonymous planted 3 trees in memory of Richard Rasmussen
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
3 trees were planted in memory of
Richard Lloyd Rasmussen
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Ron Sebert posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
I knew Rick and Kai many years ago. Wonderful people. Very sorry to hear of his passing. My condolences to the Rasmussen family.
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Vanessa Milot posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
To Kai, Julie and Sandy,
My deepest condolences for your tragic loss. The news of Rick's passing is heartbreaking. He was such a wonderful, kind hearted man and a well loved member of the Ridley community. I remember him fondly as my coach, history teacher and positive role model throughout my high school years. May your happy memories provide comfort in these very difficult days.
Vanessa
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Anonymous planted a tree in memory of Richard Rasmussen
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
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Dennis Fortune donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Sunday, January 21, 2024
From Dennis Fortune and Lucy Lach
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Dennis Fortune uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, January 21, 2024
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So much to remember about Rick. I will especially miss his ability to throw back his head and laugh that Big Raz laugh.
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Karen Freeman donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Sunday, January 14, 2024
Dear Kai, Sandy and Julie,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family on your loss. Rick is remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Sincerely,
Karen and Dave Thorpe
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Aimee Sulliman posted a condolence
Saturday, January 13, 2024
Sincerest condolences and sympathies to you for your loss. Ras was an incredible teacher, coach, and empathetic human who truly cared about bringing out the best in people. Thank you for sharing him with the Ridley Community so we could be inspired by him. May time heal and your memories together provide comfort.
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Greg Smith posted a condolence
Saturday, January 13, 2024
To Kai and family
I met Rick during the summer of ‘77, down at the Henley Island. I was 14 at the time, a novice coxie filling a seat in the stern of the Sr. Men’s Eight . All of the oarsman that were trying out for the crew that summer were 7-10 yrs older than I. There was not much I had in common with them other than the love to be on the water. What I remember most fondly of that summer was the kindness that Rick showed me. Here was this ‘big’ Viking of a man who towered over me with the friendliest smile and caring eyes. I never forgot that….his kindness. Yrs later, as a coach of HS rowing I’d run into Rick on the Island. Along with Ryhce Jenkins, we’d talk about our crews, poking fun at each other, always in jest. I admired his manner of coaching and his management of the Ridley rowing program.
There is a theme in the tributes to Rick. It is of kindness to others, big and small, young and old. He showed compassion and empathy for others. And lastly…he was easy to smile! I will remember Raz
My sincere condolence
G. Smith
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Don Hall posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
Very sad to hear about Raz's passing. At Western, when I was in my novice year, I lived next door to him, Billy and Freddie. They were all varsity. Raz was like a big brother to me, always interested in my progress. I never heard an unkind work from him, and loved talking music with him. I even got to row in a boat with him once - a spring season at Dad Vail. He dubbed me "Dyno-bow." I haven't seen him in decades, but it seems like yesterday. He was one of the good ones. Dyno (Don Hall)
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Vera Wilcox donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Friday, January 12, 2024
My sincerest condolences to you Kai and Sandy and Julie. Let your tears flow as you remember Rick and know that in time there will be laughter again when you remember him. Such a gentle soul whose light has gone too soon but lives on in all of you.
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Rose Simpson uploaded photo(s)
Friday, January 12, 2024
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Dear Kai and family. It would be no surprise to you that my family had the privilege of getting to know Raz during the rowing days. My late mother allowed the entire crew to sleep on her floor and fold out bed and sing Eric Clapton songs over makeshift microphones (skipping ropes). I loved Raz like an older brother who was always kind to me when I was a kid. I looked up to him and loved eating cereal with him while watching Mr. Roger’s Neighbourhood. I will always remember his bushy red fro and wonderful smile.
He was a lucky man but we were much luckier having had him in our lives.
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William Stewart posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
I have very fond memories of Rick. We rowed together for one crazy summer in 1977. We won just about every race we were in. We travelled together to regattas in the US and Montreal, always having fun and listening to music - he had a great love and knowledge of classic rock. I was really happy when he got the teaching job at Ridley, my Alma mater. Kindest regards and condolences to his family. I will always remember Rick as one of the good guys who made a difference. Will (Willie) Stewart
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Mary Anne Kormos posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
Dear Kai and family
Please accept the condolences of our family at this difficult time. Raz was a long time friend, who I always valued for his kindness and consideration. We met through mutual friends that he roomed with back at university. He rowed at Western and tried out for the Olympics with my brother in law, and was a teacher and coach at Ridley when our daughter Katherine was a student in the upper school. It was reassuring to have a few old friends on staff there when she moved from Pittsburgh to St Catharines at 17.
I always loved running in to Rick at regattas when our kids were racing . His genuine interest in others and his kindness were exemplary . Raz was a gentle man in every sense and he will be missed by everyone he touched. Rest well old friend.
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jamie snider posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
my deepest condolences to the family
raz gave me my first coaching opportunity at Ridley and I am forever grateful. He was a true friend.
Jamie Snider
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Janice Ashcroft donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Friday, January 12, 2024
Sandy has become a very close friend of Jay's and I am so sorry for the loss to your family... we share in your grief.
Sincerely, Janice Ashcroft
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Mariann hibbard posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
Thinking of you all during this very difficult time.
Mariann Van Rooy Hibbard
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Vinitha Kahandaliyanage donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Friday, January 12, 2024
Sharing your sadness during this difficult time. Rick had been a such a remarkable person and a teacher to our three sons at Ridley.
Kahandaliyanage family
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Allison posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
Rick was a valued volunteer at the hospital, we are so grateful for his years of dedicated service. His sense of humanity was inspiring, and he will be missed by many.
Condolences to his family during this very difficult time, we're all thinking of you.
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Elizabeth (Leeza) Kurusi/Mollon and Family purchased flowers
Friday, January 12, 2024
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Elizabeth (Leeza) Kurusi/Mollon and Family
purchased the Dreams From the Heart Bouquet and planted a memorial tree for the family of Richard Rasmussen.
Send Flowers
Our condolences go out to your family on the passing of Mr Ras, a great gym teacher to many Ridley students. May your soul find peace and comfort.
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Elizabeth (Leeza) Kurusi/Mollon and Family planted a tree in memory of Richard Rasmussen
Friday, January 12, 2024
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Our condolences go out to your family on the passing of Mr Ras, a great gym teacher to many Ridley students. May your soul find peace and comfort. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Jerry Patchell posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
After winning in novice eights I made a beer-fueled confession that I wanted to try for the Olympics. Raz looked at me and said do you have any idea how much work that would be. I said let’s do it, he took me under his wing and we made a deal to try go to the Olympics together. We shared a house with 4 other maniacs for four years, we took our physical education program together, and rowed through varsity to Olympic trials. We won races in eights, fours and pairs together at the Canadian and Henley championships. Through those years we had great travels and parties, and I remember how excited he was when he met his wife Kai. I can tell you one thing for certain, that the world is a better place because of Raz. He was just an awesome guy with a heart as big as his biceps, which is to say a lot. Great athlete, great person I’m so going to miss him. Enjoy the tunes up there buddy!
Dave Patchell-Evans
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Jack Sabine posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Before he indelibly established himself as a wonderful husband and father, and memorable teacher, administrator and coach at Ridley, Raz was the pride of Beamsville District Secondary School in the early '70s. He was a gifted athlete who excelled in any sport he put his hand to. Our "Natural". But he was also a kind, gentle and patient soul. Above all, he was my friend in those early halcyon days at BDSS.
We pushed and succeeded together. But, oh how we laughed .... let 'er run Raz.
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Gary and Marlyn Simpson posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
It is with a heavy heart and a profound feeling of sadness when we think about the loss of our good friend, Big Raz.
His presence, kindness and joy for life are all attributes that we all enjoyed about him.
Some of my favorite memories were playing hockey on the pond, playing football with him at Beamsville and all of the years of rowing and coaching with Raz.
I had the privilege of rowing with Raz in the “Big Purple Machine”.
For all of the years as a teacher and coach at Ridley to his many friends in the Western Rowing community, he will be missed!
We wish Kai and the entire Rasmussen family the best and wish than well in the future!
Gary and Marilyn Simpson
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Kristine Humber donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Deepest sympathies from Elfie Frederiksen's youngest daughter Kristine. I met Rick and Darryl when they visited their mother and never forgot my mother across the hall. Thank you for your kindness and on behalf of my family, I send healing thoughts to you all.
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Cindy Malyk posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Bob and I are so so sorry to read of Rick's passing. He was definitely one of Ridley's finest and kindest. When Bob was in hospital recovering from a severe stroke five years ago, Rick visited and told him a joke that we tell to this day. A bright light at a dark time.
Sending the biggest of hugs to Kai, Sandy & Julie. We know you must be heartbroken.
Bob & Cindy Malyk
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Anonymous planted a tree in memory of Richard Rasmussen
Thursday, January 11, 2024
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There's no words to express how sorry we are. If I could take away at least some of the pain, I would in a heartbeat . Our sincere condolences. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Derackk Curtis posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
I am proud to have been one of the many young athletes Coach Raz took under his wing. As a teacher, he taught us to always give your best effort. He coached, mentored and groomed many of us to become better citizens after Ridley. Coach you will be missed. One of the best. You left a positive impression on all that called you coach and those memories will never fade. Thank you.....
“As you look down from Heaven onto all of the fields you ever set foot upon, I hope you smile at the lives you have touched and the legacy you have left. May God place his hand on your shoulder and say, “Well done”.
—Anonymous
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Hilda Danneel posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Dear Brian, Diane, Marshall, Spencer, on behalf of the Belgian family we send you and the Rasmussen family our heartful condolences. To cherish the close memories will always bring you confort! So sad to loose a wonderful person, brother! Xxx love from Belgium
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Elana posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
To Sandy & Julie & Mrs. Raz -
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Raz. He was an amazing teacher and always empathic and compassionate.
Cherish the memories you have of him and hold them closely.
Keeping you in my prayers during this difficult time,
Elana Nicholls
OR '06
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Amar Roy posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Heartful condolences to Priya, Alexander and the Rasmussen family at this difficult time. I know there are no words that can ease your pain. Just know that I’ll always be here for you no matter what.
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“Besh” posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
November 1980. Raz’s first year at Ridley. Through that whole winter, he was there every day with us novices, and we were thrilled to have him coach us! He coached us our novice year, then again two seasons later in my grade 13 year. Stotes gold, and a CSSRA silver and bronze. GREAT coach and an even greater guy. Raz put us through one of the hardest pre-Schoolboy workouts I’ve ever seen. His words after: “Guys, you survived today. No one race will ever be that hard.” One of the best coaches I’ve ever had, in any sport. Condolences to Kai and his family. RIP, Sir. You were one of the best.
Tom Beshoff
OR ‘83
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Sandy Walker posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Coach Raz's presence in my life at Ridley had a profound impact on my decisions later on. He was a positive role model who demonstrated that motivating people could be achieved by being kind and respecting them. I always appreciated his sense of humour and good-natured approach to life and most all his support and encouragement. I am sure many Ridley students would agree.
My condolences to his family and dear friends.
Sandy Walker
Class of '90
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Rhys posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
You were the best friend anyone could have. So many great times. I will miss you dearly.
Rhys
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Anthony Hughes posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
RIP Mr. Raz and condolences to Alexander and the Rasmussen family at this difficult time.
Two particular lesson come to mind, which I continue to pass on.
1. Be a fan of a team, but above all else, be a fan of the sport.
This was during the World Cup after were England knocked-out at the hands of Brazil. He asked if I was excited for the championship. Disgruntled I responded, "England are out so its over." He laughed, looked at me and said, "I'm disappointed. You're not a football (soccer) fan at all. You're an England fan." He wasn't wrong, but I wanted to prove him wrong. I watched the rest of the World Cup, watched Brazil lift the trophy, and actually enjoyed it. This lesson can be applied to more than just sports and spectating, and I've always tried to think about the big picture, and maintain respect for both sides of a competition, debate, or disagreement.
2. Do what you're passionate about and encourage others to do the same.
After a gruelling but physically rewarding rowing training winter season, I had a change of heart. Instead of forcing me to man the eight, he asked, "Getting onto the water is the reward. Why don't you want that?" I responded, "My dad played rugby and I've always wanted to play. Now I might be heavy enough to make the team." He laughed, and in his easy way said, "I can't fault you for doing what you're passionate about. It's a great game. Maybe I'll see you for football next year." I did play football for him the next year, and importantly, I fell in love with rugby and played for the next twelve years. There aren't many people who would invest four months into someone and then encourage them to move on. It's something I try to be mindful of now, in work and in life.
Thanks for the life lessons Raz!
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Il Gelato di Carlotta donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
The entire Gelato di Carlotta Family is thinking of you at your sorrowful time.
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Jade Alexander posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
So sorry to hear. Mr. Raz was my favorite teacher and even got himself onto my grad quote.
The many coffees I had to bring to get out of the dog house during law class still makes me smile. He was the best!
Thinking of his family during this time.
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Watson posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Rasmussen family, his many friends and fellow members of the Ridley family. Raz was one of the Ridley greats.
Rick taught me history in my early years boarding at Ridley and was my first rowing coach. He ignited a passion for the sport and I went on to row through upper school and then later at Queen's University. I eventually coached rowing and used some of the early lessons taught by Rick. They were the sort of lessons that resulted in winning gold medals.
As an old boy it was always a pleasure to see Raz down at the course to catch up, or at a events with Kai on campus. It was a highlight to have that firm handshake and a good laugh and reminisce with him, often sharing some laughs with his great friend Rhys Jenkins. I'll cherish fond memories.
Jon W. Watson, LH OR '95
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Daniela D'Amato posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
My sincere condolences to his family and friends! Mr. Rasmussen left a memorable impression on me as one of his students at Ridley. He was always so kind and compassionate while making school enjoyable with his light-hearted humor and outlook on life. Sending love and light all the way from Bermuda! Keeping all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
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Justin Pintwala posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Raz was such a memorable teacher and coach for me at Ridley.
He was my football coach and rowing coach. I'll never forget the drive down to philly for rowing or the drives to and from the rowing course.
He told me i should try out for a certain position in football that i didn't think i was qualified for. But he pushed me, believed in me and i ultimately played the role.
I'll remember Raz for how supportive he was, his good humour, his song choices in the car & his belief in others.
RIP Raz.
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Denise Mason posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
So sorry for your loss Kai. Thinking of you & your family at this time.
Denise Mason
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Alanna Kit posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Sending my deepest condolences and prayers. Rick was my favourite Phys Ed. teacher at Ridley, and he played a pivotal role in fostering my academic pursuits toward wellness. He had such a kind, grounded, laid back demeanour. A true gentleman. He will be missed by many.
Raz certainly left positive impacts on students and colleagues at Ridley.
Rest peacefully, Raz.
Alanna Kit
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Tammy Morris posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Kai, Julie, Sandy and Priya, we are deeply saddened to hear about Rick. Our son Jamie said it best - ‘What a loss… one of my favourite people at Ridley’. We will never forget his calm, gentle and supremely kind demeanour. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and hearts are with you at this sad time.
Tammy (Morris) and Lorne (Smith)
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Rich Neufeld posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
I was lucky enough to row in a few winning crews with Rick (OUA at Western, and a couple at Henley) I remember him as a great crew mate, a strong athlete, and later, in various coaching roles . I would occasionally bump into him at the local Superstore-spend a few moments catching up. He will be missed. Condolences to his family
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Sarah Bobko posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
I'm so sorry to hear about Rick. He was a teacher of mine at Ridley, and I remember him fondly. My sincere condolences to his family.
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Ron and Sue Stecyk donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
We are so shocked to hear of Rick's passing. Our heartfelt thoughts go out to Darryl and the rest of your family. Such a wonderful man who brought so much joy to our Mom, Elfie Frederiksen at Tabor Manor. Our deepest sympathies to you all.
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Jason Prickett posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
My sincere and deepest condolensces to Kai, Sandy and Julie and family. Rick was a great friend, colleague, and co-coach, who no doubt has made such a positive impact on the lives of countless Ridleians, friends, and colleages. One side of Rick that many people may not have seen was his creativity and passion for music and songwriting. I will remember fondly the shared experiences at Kandalore, football, wine making group, and just hanging out for a pint after a game or activity.
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Rodney Reimer posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Rick was a genuine person. No conjecture. Ready with a smile, laugh or story. Always ready to help. It was a pleasure to know him as a friend, colleague and mentor. Quiet but assuming. We’ll sure miss you big guy. Love and condolences to the Raz family.
Rodney
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Doug Melville posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
I am saddened by your loss. I remember Ric from my early days teaching at B.D.S.S.. In a school full of good kids and fine students Ric distinguished himself as a unique and genuine soul. I was not surprised when I met him decades later volunteering at the hospital displaying the same warm and self-effacing demeanour that characterized him as a teenager.
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Andrea McCollum posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew him as a volunteer at the hospital. Always so helpful, caring and understanding of ours. His passing is a great loss to the whole community.
My prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Andrea McCollum
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Sharon & Tom Laviolette donated to PARKINSON CANADA INC.
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Kai, Julie, Sandy and Priya....sending our love from our family to yours at this surreal and difficult time. Our hearts are breaking for you. You are in our prayers and thoughts. Love, The Laviolettes xoxo
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Nicholas Ronald uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 8, 2024
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Dear Kai, Julie and Sandy:
I was very sorry indeed to hear of Rick's passing. I have many happy memories of time spent with Rick at football, rowing and Camp Kandalore. He was an outstanding coach and teacher at Ridley. I am honoured to have counted him as both a good friend and mentor.
Attached is a photo of Rick at my old high school, Napanee District Secondary School, with Avril Lavigne an NDSS graduate. Our football Tigers crushed the Golden Hawks on that day - September 16, 2006.
Nicholas R.
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Marianna Varpalotai posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
To Kai and family
I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Rick your husband and father. As the Athletic Therapist standing on the sidelines of the football field at Ridley, I will never forget his gentle demeanor, while the football game was at a tense moment of a poor ref call or 3rd down a lots of yards to go. He was a great coach to be on the sidelines. I really enjoyed working at Ridley with Rick part of the coaching staff. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Marianna Varpalotai
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Marleen posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
We are very sorry to hear about Richard s passing ,we are the neighbours from across the road .
Ben and Marleen Vellekoop
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Blayr Hogg posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
Mr. Raz was endlessly kind, patient, smart, and funny. Despite my obvious lack of phys-ed skills; he was always there with a kind word or some encouragement to push me along. I got to know Mr. Raz on a personal level while friends with his daughter, Julie. I frequently reminisce on how he would go for long jogs around the countryside in St. Catharines and come back to his home and lay down on the floor for ages to recover. It always made me laugh as he would let their dog, Pepper, crawl all over him. He never failed to put a smile on my face or welcome me into the family home with open arms.
He was a wonderful man, husband, and father. I can only imagine how dearly missed he will be by all the lives he touched, but most especially his beloved family.
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Dr Nancy Ellen Miller planted a tree in memory of Richard Rasmussen
Monday, January 8, 2024
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Raz was one of the gentlest and kindest teachers I have ever known. His tenderness and insight influence me still. My heart is with you. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Steven Ross posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
Raz taught generations of Ridleians discipline and perseverance but so much more than that. He was such a kind hearted man. In 1990, delivering Ridley a senior lightweight men's eight gold medal at schoolboy was made so much sweeter due to the fact that we were delivering it for him and because of him. Steve Ross, OR 90.
A Memorial Tree was planted for Richard Rasmussen
Monday, January 8, 2024
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at George Darte Funeral Chapel Inc. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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The family of Richard Lloyd Rasmussen uploaded a photo
Monday, January 8, 2024
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