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GAIL RATTRAY (HARTLEY)
Date of Passing: Jun 22, 2022
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
GAIL RATTRAY
(nee HARTLEY)
On June 22, 2022, Gail Charlotte Rattray passed peacefully at the age of 84 years young at St. Boniface Hospital.
Gail was the daughter of George and Gladys Hartley and grew up in Winnipeg on Ash Street with her brother Glen. She attended Robert H. Smith and Kelvin schools and later attended the School of Nursing at Health Sciences Centre graduating in 1959. A blind date arranged by Iris Morrison led to her marriage to Michael Rattray at St. George's Anglican Church on June 3, 1960. David, Glen, Jane and Amy were born between 1961 and 1970.
Once a nurse, always a nurse. Mom tended to many scraped knees and broken hearts. She was involved in her children's activities that included hockey, soccer, Highland dancing, skiing, swimming, horses and the care and feeding of Elizabeth and Emily, our enormous Newfoundland dogs. Mom loved painting, gardening, playing tennis, and volunteering at the House of Peace.
The family cottage at Lake of the Woods (Kenora) was the center of her family life. Mike and Gail also spent many years at their home on Longboat Key, Florida with friends and family.
Gail is survived by her husband Michael and children, Amy (James), Jane (John), Glen (Anne) and David (Polly) as well as grandchildren, Heather, Michael, Ryan, Kate, Laura, Annie, Claudia and Will. Mom's happy place was sitting on her deck at the lake amongst the flowers she nurtured with a dog at her feet. Among those vying for space in her heart and on her bed were Gracie, Harry, Jackson, Lola, Audrey, Elsa, Navy and Banks.
We will forever miss Mom's kind heart, gentle soul and sense of fun. It was alleged that Gail cheated at cards. The jury is still out.
Mom's request was that her ashes be spread on Treaty Island, Lake of the Woods.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Holy Names House of Peace at www.houseofpeace.ca/donate
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 25, 2022
Condolences & Memories (10 entries)
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While I never had the pleasure of meeting her, it was so wonderful to see Jane’s face light up when she spoke of her mom. Losing such a big heart is very difficult but so many heart warming memories live on forever. Our hearts go out to Jane, John, Annie and Laura. With love, The Lemkes. - Posted by: Lisa Misyk (Friend of Jane ) on: Jul 05, 2022
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Mike - We are truly sorry to hear of Gail's passing. It has been some time since we shared time at the Manitoba Club member evenings. Gail had a wonderful personality and she will be missed. Please accept our condolences for your loss. Bob Cunningham - Posted by: Robert W Cunningham (Friend) on: Jul 04, 2022
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Very sorry to hear about your loss. My condolences. Stay strong! - Posted by: Anthony Hay (Old Southwood Neighbour) on: Jul 03, 2022
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Dear Mike and Family, We are saddened by the news of Gail’s death. Our thoughts are with you and your family as you adjust to this sudden loss from your family circle. It is a sad time for all of you and we mourn your loss. Much love from Donna, Max, Hugh, Jane and Anne - Posted by: Donna Cawker and family (Long time friend ) on: Jun 30, 2022
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On behalf of the WGH/HSC Nursing Alumni we extend our sincerest condolences to Gail's family and friends. Gail is remembered by her classmates as a caring, loveable, active classmate, attending class luncheons and Homecoming, she will be sorely missed. - Posted by: MARIAN Ulyatt (WGH/HSC Nursing Alumni Friendship Convenor) on: Jun 29, 2022
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Dear Mr. Rattray, David, Glen, Jane, and Amy, I am so very sorry for your loss. The parents of close friends often play a significant role in the everyday lives of children and many of my fondest memories growing up with Jane include Mrs. Rattray and her beautiful smile. I vividly remember her pride when we won an award together, her humour when she learned we were selling Avon while underage, her patience with our messy gingerbread houses, her support when we fundraised for our Russia trip, and her grace when she very likely heard us swear when plunging into the cold lake. Even in your sorrow, take comfort in the ways so much of her spirit shines in all of you and your children. May her memory be eternal, Marianne Vardalos - Posted by: Marianne Vardalos (Family friend) on: Jun 28, 2022
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Mike: Bev and I were shocked to learn from Thorlein that Gail had passed away. We know that you will miss her greatly and we extend our best wishes to you at this time. I will call you in a few days to more appropriately convey our thoughts. The very best to you and all the other members of the Rattray family. Bob Goodwin - Posted by: Bev & Bob Goodwin (Friends) on: Jun 28, 2022
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Mike, Susan and I were shocked to hear of Gail’s passing. We send our sincere condolences to you and your family at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Keith - Posted by: Keith Knox (Friend) on: Jun 25, 2022
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What a terrific tribute to a very special lady. Her legacy lives on in all of you and make the Rattray’s such a wonderful family. All our love to you all. Please give Mike a big hug. - Posted by: Fred Abbott and family (Friend) on: Jun 25, 2022
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Condolences for the entire Rattray family! We’re very sorry for your loss - Posted by: Fred Wright (Friend) on: Jun 25, 2022
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