It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Robert (Bob) Colin Ragsdale, on January 16, 2025. Dearly beloved husband of Elizabeth (Bette) Ragsdale (nee Thacker, predeceased). Son of Orville Ragsdale and Laura Cole. Dear companion to Lenore Goodwin. Lovingly remembered and cherished dad to Lynne, Rob and Lisa. Special father-in-law to Susan and Carl. Bob will be fondly remembered as a proud and precious “Grampie” to Mathew, Michael, (spouse Cari), Ryan, Patrick, Timothy and Colin. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Upon graduating from high school, Bob pursued his passion for photography. He moved to Toronto to begin a photographic career that spanned over 6 decades. Freelancing for the Toronto Star and the Gilbert A. Milne studio, Bob honed his artistic craft and soon opened his own business, specializing in corporate, theatrical, and fine portraiture. Bob soon became renowned for his ability to capture unique theatrical images and subsequently focused on the many theatre productions across Canada and the US. He became the official photographer for The Shaw Festival, Stratford Festival, Grand Theatre and Crest Theatre through the 60’s to 90’s. His unique and creative ability to capture theatre images garnered many awards and accolades. Bob was awarded the Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain, Master of Photographic Arts - Canada and the Queens Silver Jubilee Medal amongst many others.

Bob was very active member of St. Olave's Anglican Church in West Toronto. Together with Bette, Bob was heavily engaged in the church’s activities and functions, held numerous wardens’ positions, delivered “Meals on Wheels” to shut-ins and seniors and were always available to lend a helping hand. Bob was instrumental in creating and administering the church’s Second Century Fund, which provided funds and assistance to Christian missions in Canada and across the world. Under Bob’s leadership this charitable fund has grown to become an invaluable resource for the many that require assistance. For his lifelong love and devotion to his church and his dedication to the Second Century Fund, Bob was named to the Order of the Diocese of Toronto. A very proud moment for Bob and his family.

He truly enjoyed his life at the cottage and his passion for “the river” has passed to his children and grandchildren. He created so many memories that will last forever in their hearts.

His family would like to provide a very special thank you for the special care that the staff and nurses at Toronto Rehab Centre, Home Instead and The Dorothy Ley Hospice provided and in particular Dr. Sukerman and Sharlene Fraser from Spectrum Health Care.

A Service of Remembrance to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at St. Olave’s Anglican Church, 360 Windermere Avenue (south of Bloor) on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 2 p.m. A gathering of friends and family will be held afterwards at The Old Mill, 21 Old Mill Road, Etobicoke. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations in Bob’s name be made to the St. Olave’s Second Century Fund and The Dorothy Ley Hospice.