John Peter Ratzlaff

The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.

Abbotsford, British Columbia
Grant of Arms and Flag
December 15, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 240

Arms of John Peter Ratzlaff
Arms of John Peter Ratzlaff
Flag of John Peter Ratzlaff
 
Arms of John Peter Ratzlaff

Arms of John Peter Ratzlaff

Blazon

Purpure on a pale sapinagé Or two keys addorsed their bows interlaced Purpure;

Symbolism

Purple is a highly-regarded colour in China, where Mr. Ratzlaff lived for many years. The fir twigs represent his love of trees. The keys symbolize the unlocking of the door to wisdom, as well as the edification of those who are in custodial residences as charges of Correctional Services Canada, where Mr. Ratzlaff also taught. As the keys are pointing in opposite directions, they evoke the idea of studying history to help plan the future.

Crest

Blazon

An ox couchant guardant Or on a grassy mount set with four flame azaleas proper;

Symbolism

To Mr. Ratzlaff, the ox, a symbol of strength, represents the importance of physical fitness. The rhododendron is his favourite flower, of which the flame azalea is a species. Their number represents his four children.

Motto

Blazon

OPEN EYES SEE AROUND;

Symbolism

This phrase is both an observation and a direction. It indicates Mr. Ratzlaff’s belief that alertness is necessary to grasp the wealth of opportunities that come from education and nature. It is also a call for others to open their eyes to appreciate what is around them.
Flag of John Peter Ratzlaff

Flag of John Peter Ratzlaff

Blazon

A banner of the Arms;

Symbolism

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

Since 2023, grants, registrations and approvals of heraldic emblems are no longer announced in the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to John Peter Ratzlaff

Additional Information

Creator(s)

Original concept of Darrel Kennedy, Assiniboine Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter

D. Robert Tunstall

Calligrapher

Kathy Feig

Recipient Type

Individual