Kathy Paterson (née Berukoff)
Our cherished and beloved Kathy finished her earthly journey on November 26, 2021, embraced and lifted in love by her two strong daughters and a battalion of friends and family.
Her memory and dazzling legacy of extraordinary open-heartedness will be carried on by daughters, Megan and Robin (Patrick), sisters Sharon (Keith), Laurie, and Tracey, parents, Bill and Mary, niece Kristel (Brennan), and nephews, Jason and Dan, and innumerable deeply treasured friends.
The roles Kathy played in her life were as vast as the number of lives she touched. Proud mama, daughter, sister, aunt, travel agent, yoga teacher and friend to just about everyone she met. She was also a fierce defender, protector and healer to those in need, opening her home as a sanctuary for many people.
No matter what challenge Kathy faced, she met it head on, allowing all of us to see the magnificent warrior she was. While her spirit was grounded in peace, love and happiness, it came with a splash of fiery feistiness that made its presence known when needed.
If you knew Kathy, you were blessed to learn many of life’s lessons including: it takes a village not only to raise a child, but to walk with each of us on our journeys; when good things happen, say, “Thank you – more please!”; always have an assortment of good boxes on hand; laugh loud, cry hard, and get angry when you need to; move your body; savour each bite; cheezies and wine are a well-balanced meal; listen to your heart; shower babies with love; accept more, judge less; be honest with yourself and others; it’s ok to be scared, but keep moving forward; never stop learning about yourself; play Sudoku in the morning to keep your brain sharp; and of course, good lattes and high thread count bed linens are a must.
Kathy requested a party for her big beautiful village, so we'll celebrate her life in the summer of 2022 when we can all gather outside. In the meantime, we hope you reminisce with your own smaller villages with big cries and bigger laughs, honouring all things Kathy. Robin and Megan would love to join you.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you gather all the love and energy that Kathy gave you and spread it to someone else each day. You can also make a donation to Changing Horses NFP Society Supportive Housing Complex or Rosedale Hospice.
Long live the beauty that Kathy shines down and onto all of us, and may we carry her in our hearts wherever we go.
Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.cochranecountryfuneral.com
