Denise Rackus

Denise Rackus, whose remarkable life journey began on the eve of the Second World War, passed away peacefully, at the age of 85, in Ottawa. Denise was predeceased by her parents, Dénes and Katalin (née Belak) Moritz; sister, Madeleine Cloutier (née Moritz); and husband, George Rackus. She leaves behind her sons, David (Danute) and Philip (Stephanie); her grandchildren, Linas, Darius (Christe), Justin and Paige; and great-grandchildren, Enoch, Ambrose and Winifred; as well as sister-in-law, Illa; and nephews and nieces, George, Virginia, Albert, Ariane and Michelle. Born in Hungary in 1939, she experienced the turmoil of war firsthand, spending her early years in Hungary during that turbulent time in history. Alongside her sister, Madelaine, Denise found refuge in Switzerland after being evacuated from Hungary by the Red Cross, where they spent several formative years in a boarding school in Fribourg. In the 1950s, Denise and her family embarked on a new chapter in Canada, settling in the Ottawa area. It was there that Denise graduated from the University of Ottawa in 1959. Undeterred by the challenges she faced early in life, Denise's thirst for knowledge and passion for learning led her to earn two Masters degrees, first at Brock University and then at McMaster University. Denise pursued a fulfilling career in education. She began teaching in Toronto before moving to the Haldimand Board of Education. She taught History and French in Caledonia, Cayuga and Dunnville, where she left an indelible mark on countless young lives that remember her to this day. Upon retirement, Denise's adventurous spirit only grew stronger. She embraced the opportunity to travel extensively, often accompanied by her beloved grandchildren, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Canada, the history of Europe and countries of Latin America. Her passion for education knew no bounds, as evidenced by her time teaching English at the University of Brno in the Czech Republic and later learning Spanish. Her zest for life, boundless curiosity, concern for the environment, engagement in civic matters and unwavering spirit has served as an inspiration to all who knew her. Denise Rackus will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her remarkable life, her unwavering dedication to education and her immeasurable love for her family and friends. Friends and family are invited to join us in honouring Denise's memory at a public visitation to be held at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Friday, May 31st, from 6 to 8 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 1st, at 2 p.m. in Beechwood's Sacred Space. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Indspire.ca, the Heart and Stoke Foundation of Canada, or by planting a tree.