Dr. James Peter Raab
Dr. James Peter Raab, 68 died peacefully at his home in St. Lucie Village, Florida on December 11, 2009.
He leaves his beloved wife, Pamela Jean; his daughter, Major Jennifer Jean, USAF of Washington, DC; a son, Peter Stapleton of Austin, TX; sisters, Therese Wagner and Dina Tremblay; brothers, Leonard and Garry Raab all of Canada. He was sadly predeceased by his daughter, Jodie Kathryn.
Born on April 13th, 1941 in St. Gregor, Saskatchewan to Johanna and Leonard Raab, James was the middle child of a German, Roman Catholic, farming family of seven. As a young lad, James quickly learned the importance of hard work, strong family values and enduring faith; principles which guided him throughout his life.
James attended high school at St. Peter’s College Boarding School, he received his Bachelor of Science at the University of Saskatchewan and graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph. Dr. Raab first practiced Veterinary Medicine in Seaforth, Ontario where he met and married his wife, Pamela in 1967. After receiving his Masters Degree from the University of Guelph Dr. Raab worked in the pharmaceutical industry in Montreal, Quebec and Greensboro, North Carolina.
In 1978, Dr. Raab and his family moved to Ft. Pierce and established the Tri County Animal Hospital. A small animal practicioner, Dr. Raab believed in providing the highest quality veterinary care for his patients while developing long-term relationships with the community. His love for animals, the people who cared for their pets and the desire to make a difference in the community was evident. A mentor for veterinary professionals and students alike, a compassionate man and doctor, a loving father, husband, brother and son, Dr. Raab’s way of living and the huge smile he offered to all will long be remembered.
After retirement in 2004, Dr. Raab spent summers “farming” in Seaforth, Ontario. He also enjoyed woodworking, golfing and traveling.
He was a member of St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Sunrise Kiwanis, Advisor to Westwood Veterinary Tech Program, and was Past President of the St. Lucie County Humane Society.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Lucie County Humane Society, 100 Savannah Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34982 or to the Treasure Coast Hospice, 1201 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL 34997.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 13, 2009 from 4-8 PM with a Wake Service at 4:00 PM at Haisley Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 14, 2009 at 10:00 AM at St. Mark’s Catholic Church. A reception will follow the service at the Haisley Reception Center.
Arrangements are under the direction of Haisley Funeral & Cremation Service.