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Catherine Waite

January 24, 2024

Passed away on January 24, 2024, in London, Ontario, at the age of 71. Loving mother of Casey (Kyran Taylor), and grandma of Everett and Remi. Predeceased by her husband, Jo DeMarco; sister, Patricia Sheppard; and parents, Alan and Olive Waite.  She will be deeply missed by all of her extended family and friends, especially by her close group of cousins whom she kept in contact with despite their physical distance.

Born in Montreal Quebec, Catherine grew up on Montclair Avenue, the youngest child of Olive and Alan, a WWII RCAF veteran. She completed her Bachelor’s degree at McGill University before obtaining her Master’s degree in Canadian History at Dalhousie University in Halifax, N.S. Afterwards, Catherine pursued a career in editing in Toronto, working with various academic publications.

She was involved in sports all her life; gymnastics in high school, softball and badminton after that, and even being a regular at Aquafitness at her local pool in Markham. She was a loyal Habs (Montreal Canadiens) fan, and the biggest fan of all her daughter’s athletic endeavors. She was a steady figure in the school, on the sidelines, and at endless gymnastics practices.

Her two cats, Big Foot and Yeti were her favourite companions and were very popular with all her friends and staff at Amica London where she spent her later years.

Friends and family will be received at Northview Funeral Chapel, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London, on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 11 am – 1 pm, with Words of Remembrance occurring at 12 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local Humane Society or the Kid’s Help Phone.

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Dear Casey and family. I'm very sorry to hear of your mom's passing. I recently tried to contact your mom only to learn this. I am greatly saddened. She was a good friend to me, and I appreciated her wisdom & candour in many things. We seemed to click in a good way. I lost touch in about 2017 because of my work and many other things that weren't worth losing touch with her, and then a move as well. Life kind of works that way. I will always remember Catherine for the times we shared. I was lucky to get to know her and she'll be missed. Sweet condolences to you and yours. Lisa Ruggiero (daughter of Marguerite Longo-Darrigo, sister of Vic)

~ Lisa Ruggiero

As one of the cousins, I am remembering Catherine’s laughter, wry humor, and bright commentaries on life from our many cousin parties, days at McGill, and family get togethers. I treasure the memories of our times together, including a very memorable vacation to Bermuda in our younger days, her wit, kindness and generosity to a younger cousin, her patience as she taught me bridge at school, and her warm support in later years. She shared a close relationship with our mum and was very supportive when mum’s health was declining. I am so glad to have gone to London with Suzanne for the latest cousin party with Catherine, Casey, and family. We will all toast you Catherine at our future cousin parties as well, you will be with us in spirit. All our love to you Casey, and to your family.

~ Lynne Hosley

Our deepest condolences Casey to you and Kryan and your entire family. I know all the great memories you have with your mom will live on forever. Love Aunt Mary and Damien xo

~ Mary

I am one of the ancient cousins so didn't really know Catherine when everyone was having so much fun. Later we met at weddings and funerals--I remember that lovely little grin, her ironic humour and her daughter Casey. Gone too soon. Love to all the rest of the cousins who will miss Catherine so very much.

~ Dianne (Walker) Rummery

Catherine and our cousin parties; both were fabulous. What fun we had at those parties, at Christmas and New Year parties, in Piopolis, at McGill, and beyond. She joined us for Christmas at my mom's (her beloved Tante Marielle) place in 2015. Despite the circumstances it was wonderful. We never did make it to our joint retirement balcony; knitting in our rocking chairs. Hope you met up with Bigfoot and Yeti at the rainbow bridge. Missing you already

~ Suzanne Hosley

I was one of that close band of cousins. Our families lived a few blocks from each other and there were lots of get-togethers. As young adults we had "cousin parties" without the parents, which meant we didn't have to be on our best behaviour. Catherine was always there with a cheeky story, a ready quip and her signature laugh; somewhere between a chortle and "hee-hee-hee". I'll always remember her keen intelligence and often unexpected acts of kindness.

~ Deborah Walker

Services for Catherine Waite

Celebration of Life will be held at:
Northview Funeral Chapel
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario

February 10, 2024 11:00 am to 1:00 pm

Words of Remembrance will be held at:
Northview Funeral Chapel
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario

February 10, 2024 12:00 pm

Make a donation

If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.

Humane Society London and Middlesex

Kid's Help Phone

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