Wendy, Vince, Rebbeca and Dylan Rochon
Please accept our deepest sympathies in the loss of your mother, Cathy. May she rest in peace. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Blackburn, Catherine
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BLACKBURN, Catherine
1937 - 2021
Catherine Louise Blackburn (nee Cole)
Born April 4, 1937
Cathy passed away peacefully on Sunday May 30, 2021.
She was predeceased by her dad Arthur Cole, her mom Edith (Willox), her husband Bud Blackburn and their infant son David.
Cathy is survived by her daughter Wendy (Vincent Rochon) and grandchildren Rebecca and Dylan Rochon and her daughter Beth (Neil Bigelow) and grandchildren Emma, Drew and Luke Bigelow.
She is also survived by her brother George Cole (Doris) and her sisters-in-law Shirley Blackburn (Bill-deceased), Ethel Pubrick (Bob) and Kathleen Smith (Ken) as well as a large crew of nieces and nephews.
Cathy was born in Englehart where she spent an idyllic childhood with her parents, grandparents and favourite brother, George. She headed off to the big city for university (U of T) and teacher’s college but returned to the north to marry the love of her life and raise a family in Kirkland Lake, a town she was proud to call home.
After launching her career in Orillia, she moved to KLCVI, teaching an eclectic list of subjects but mainly Health and Physical Education. She coached many high school sports and was known affectionately as “Mrs. B” by thousands of students she taught over the years. She was a dedicated teacher who genuinely cared for the well-being of all her students and focused on empowering young girls long before it became a movement.
She balanced a full-time job with parenting, helping her husband run several businesses over the years (Blackburn Equipment, Windsor Valley and the Commodore Motel to name a few) and actively volunteering on numerous fundraising committees and charitable foundations. She appreciated her good fortune and was always generous to others who needed help.
She was a wonderful mother to Wendy and Beth, supporting all of their interests and constantly reminding them that they were intelligent, beautiful and unique. She instilled her daughters with a strong sense of confidence to carry with them through life. She could do anything and everything and was a caring and proud nanny to Rebecca, Dylan, Emma, Drew and Luke. They admired her quirky sense of humour and her affinity for adventure.
Upon retirement, she immersed herself in Genealogy and became an extensive world traveller; she was the only senior citizen we know of who dared to Bungee Jump in New Zealand just for fun!
An avid sports fan, she loved cheering on the Blue Jays, Leafs, Raptors and the local Gold Miners.
She was a painter, a creative quilter and an expert seamstress with impeccable handwriting. She passed down bits and pieces of her talents to all of us. Except for the penmanship; we can’t think of anyone else who can write like that!
We are thankful for the support she received from her community including her extended family (down at the farm), many close lifelong friends, her neighbours on Algonquin Ave and her friends at the Encore Club.
We are grateful to the staff at Kirkland and District Hospital and Extendicare for their kindness and care over the last several months. Special thanks to her caregiver Mike Kenny who went out of his way to comfort her until the end.
Cathy’s family will be celebrating her life privately at a later date.
53 messages reçus
Wendy and family
I am sorry for the loss of your mom, clearly she led a remarkable life, may her legacy live on in you, your sister and your family.. sending condolences .
Debbie, Justin and AJ Killens, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy and Beth
Your mom affectionately know as Aunt Cathy to me was family... Many fond memories of her and your dad for bbqs and Sunday brunches. I always loved having chats with her when I made it back home to KL. And will miss her dearly ❤️
Lydia Bagshaw, le 31 mai 2021
Beth, Wendy and Families
My sincerest condolences on the passing of your mother.
Sending prayers to you and your family.
Michael Teague, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy and Beth and families
Our sincere condolences on the loss of your Mom. May your memories bring you comfort.
Carlo and Sandra Dal Pai, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy, Vince, Rebecca and Dylan Rochen
Our sincerest condolences on the passing of your mother. ... May you find strength in all of your wonderful memories together. She will never be far from your heart. You are in our hearts and prayers at this difficult time.
Gail and Mark
Gail kennedy-Webb, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy, Vince, Rebecca and Dylan
Our deepest sympathies in the loss of your mom. Treasure the wonderful memories of a life well lived.
Karen and Tim Jones
Karen Jones, le 31 mai 2021
Blackburn Families
Our paths crossed several times when I lived in Kirkland Lake and Larder Lake. The last time was through the quilt guild... Cathy was very kind and caring of others and always willing to pitch in and help.
So sorry for your loss.
Charlene Stevens, le 31 mai 2021
Cathy Blackburn
Condolences to the family at this very sad and difficult time...you both have gone thru a very BAD YEAR losing both parents...Cathy was such a extraordinary person...I volunteer in the gift shop at the KDH, your MOM (to kill time) would come down (when your dad was in a patient ) and whow, an hour later she would be still there...hahaha...many stories and of course, your dad had many working relationships with my hubby Rick (Seljak and Wood Treatment Plant). Will miss seeing them together at the hockey games, we sat on the same row as them and would have a chat in between periods. So sorry for your losses.
Rick and Judy Gervais, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy Blackburn , Vince, Rebecca & Dylan
Sending much love and condolences on the passing of your mom. Cathy will truly be missed by many ! She was a shining star and was so very generous to so many! She will be sorely missed and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her & loved her!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Judi Farr , le 31 mai 2021
Beth, Neil and Emma, Drew and Luke
Our sincere sympathies on the passing of your mother and grandmother. Cherish your memories. Praying for strength for you during this difficult time.
Claude and Anne Bougie, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy, Beth, and families
So very sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.
“ Mrs B” was always a very appreciated and well liked teacher of mine, my gym teacher in high school. In the past few years, I was thankful to work with her on a couple of projects and even helped her with a couple Lasalle bingos. Was nice to reconnect with her again.
Stay strong (as she would want) and cherish those memories. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Helene
Hélène (Harvey) Studholme, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy, Beth and family
Sincere sympathy to all of you, Wendy, Beth and your family. Cathy was so proud of all of you, and I’m sure you have many memories which will make your loss easier to bear.
Margaret McCrank, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy and family
Our deepest sympathies for your loss. She certainly lived long and full live and she will be missed by so many people.
Agnes and Ken, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy , Beth and families
“Aunt Cathy” was great at pushing her students (me included) to their potential. I was a “smartie pants” who who had to be reigned in a few times by Mrs B (other teachers as well) … often to my dislike but ultimately for my own good. Mrs B encouraged me to think outside the box, to dream bigger and to achieve my goals. My reward on graduation day from Mrs B was the most impressive 2 piece track suit … I treasured it, I wore it and I wore it out. Mrs B simply said thank you. It wasn’t until years later I really realized what she did for me …. She was one of the instrumental women in my life…. Taught me to take on challenges, it’s ok to fail but not ok to give up, it’s ok to win but win with humility, its ok to be you but be the best you possible … a few years later as I realized the importance of these life lessons; I did have the chance to say thank you for you being you and me being the better me.
Rest peacefully Mrs B
My most sincere condolences to Wendy, Beth and families
Jo Crouse, le 31 mai 2021
Wendy and Beth
How life has changed so quickly for both of you this past year; the thought of not seeing both your parents at home on Algonquin Ave when I visit is very sad. Our thoughts are with you,
Susan Teague & Mike Johnson, le 31 mai 2021
To friends and family
Mrs. Blackburn as I knew her as a teen at KLCVI was my favourite teacher. She was a tough and made us perform. I looked forward to gym and I can remember her telling us all, “If you can’t come to my class and have fun, don’t come”. We all came. She stayed in my life and became friends. I eventually learned to call her Kathy. She never forgot me and I’ll never forget her. Rest easy Kathy.
Lorraine Montague
Lorraine Montague, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy and Beth
So very sorry to hear of your moms passing
Tracey Crouse, le 1 juin 2021
Blackburn Families
Great lady,great coach,great teacher,great organizer,great mentor.etc.What more could you ask of a teacher who completely dedicated her time and efforts to her students and school spirit.A life well lived. Many great moments at the I.A.G.B. meetings and athletic events. Cathy will be well remembered. Rest in peace.
jim malnerich, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy and Beth
I was fortunate to have worked with both of you in the school system.
I was very fortunate to work with your mother who was a great person.
June and I express our condolences.
June and Chuck Wallsten, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy, Beth & families
Cathy was a member of the quilt guild for many years. We enjoyed seeing the many quilts she made and know they will be treasured forever by her family. Her active presence in the many aspects of the guild made it all the more enjoyable for the other members. We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family.
Rest in peace, Cathy.
The Kirkland Lake Mile of Gold Quilters Guild, le 1 juin 2021
Cathy's children and grandchildren
So sad to hear of your loss. I lived across the street from your Mom for a short time. She was a strong community member.
shay Cunningham, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy and Beth and extended families
Dave taught at KLCVI same time as Cathy. He remembers her great sense of humour and her smile. We offer our deepest condolences to the family . Cherish all the great memories you have of Cathy as you process your grief.
Dave and Betty Oehring
Dave and Betty Oehring, le 1 juin 2021
The family of Cathy Blackburn
Wendy, Beth and families
I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. She was indeed a great lady and a good friend.
Wendy (Petch) Cooper, le 1 juin 2021
Family
Sorry for your loss. My condolences to all of you.
Darren Phillips, le 1 juin 2021
The Blackburn Families
We have very fond memories of Cathy, first in her role as our teacher at KLCVI, then Windsor Valley, as spectators at KL hockey games and finally her role in helping us with genealogy and finding birth parents for Dan and his sister. She was amazing and cleared up years of searching in practically one day. We have all lost a treasure with her death. Condolences to all family and friends.
Dan and Brenda McKinnon, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy & Beth
So sorry to hear of Aunt Cathy's passing. It is at times like this that we all feel the isolation of the pandemic so intensely. Know that we are thinking of you. Bonnie & Rick
Bonnie MacPherson, le 1 juin 2021
Vince and Wendy
Dave and I were sad to hear of your mom’s death but we’re so glad we met her in Naples
Although she had so many talents, energy and motivation
I’m sure it explains why you too are wired like Catherine
God bless her
Dave and Joellyn Potgeter, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy and Vince and Beth and Neil and family
Sending our deepest sympathy as you mourn the loss of your mom and grandmother. Cathy was an inspiring woman – travelling the world, a star at genealogy and an independent soul that led the way in pursuing her interests. She was ahead of her time in many ways and proved to be a leader by demonstrating to others that you can forge your own path. Cathy was very kind and invited our family back to her home after Gramma Winnie McGuire died – a generous gift that provided us with the opportunity to reminisce in the neighbourhood that became so familiar and significant over the decades as cousins came and went between Gramma’s and Cathy’s and Bud’s, just down the street. Rest in peace Cathy and thank you for all the wild and wonderful times at Windsor Valley and the cottage.
Keeping you in our thoughts.
Maureen Connolly and Cassie Connolly and Larry Chapman
Cassie Connolly, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy and family
Wendy, so sorry for your loss. I remember your mom well as she always had such a warm smile and was a wonderful person to everyone she met.
Your family is in our prayers.
Todd Hamden, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy & Beth & families
I remember going cross country skiing at Windsor Valley, it was so much fun and finishing the day with a delicious pot-luck dinner with all my cousins, always thought that was so nice of Cathy and Bud to invite us. Beth and Wendy, hang in there, you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Erin Connolly-Brezinski, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy, Vince, Rebecca, Dylan, Beth, Neil, Emma, Drew & Luke
On behalf of Aunt Shirley & Uncle Bill Blackburn’s family we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to each of you.
So nice to read all of the Tributes. Aunt Cathy definitely had a quirky sense of humor but she was also so generous and helpful.
We appreciate all the Happy times we had together -whether it be at Nettie Lake, Windsor Valley or at the Farm ( to name a few)
May you Rest In Peace Aunt Cathy
Love Shirley, Darcey (Ed), Trevor (Laura), Holly (Tom) & families
❤️
Holly Henninger, le 1 juin 2021
Wendy & Beth & your families.
Our heartfelt sympathies are with all of you during your time of loss. Cathy was very well thought of by her students throughout her teaching career & many families appreciated her Genealogy searches with following generations also benefiting from Cathy's extensive family history searches. I also enjoyed talking 'quilting' with her @ family gatherings & our area quilt guild shows. I hope the loving memories you have of your mom help you through this sad time.
Marcia & John Morris, le 1 juin 2021
Beth/Neil, Wendy/Vincent and Cathy's grandchildren
I am saddened to hear that Cathy has passed away. No matter how long our parents live, it’s never long enough. Cathy was my English teacher at KLCVI in 1965 and when I began work at KLCVI when I graduated, we began a friendship. I admired and respected Cathy's strength and courage as she lived life her way, meeting any challenges head on. We shared a love genealogy and spent many hours sharing our resources and a whole lot of enthusiasm and laughter as well. I will miss her.
ellen
Ellen Watson, le 2 juin 2021
Wendy and Beth
We are so sorry of your mother’s passing away....she was a great teacher at KLCVI and a good friend....
Sid and Myrta Hamden
Sidney Hamden, le 2 juin 2021
Wendy,Beth and Families
We, like so many others, are very saddened to hear the news of Cathy’s passing.
She was a dedicated educator ,coach and mentor to so many at KLCVI through her position as the Girl’s PE Head and played a major
role in the wonderful school atmosphere during those memorable years!
It was my good fortune to know her as a partner in education and to be able to rely on her energy, initiative, leadership and sense of humour during our many years in education. She was a good friend!
She will be missed by so many of her students but will also by the community for the work she did at the Museum and on so many KL projects. So many memories!
Our condolences to her wonderful family and many friends—Brian and Gale
Brian and Gale Hamilton , le 2 juin 2021
Wendy, Beth & families
My heart breaks for you. I can’t even imagine losing both my parents inside of a year.
I always remember Aunt Cathy taking photos at family gatherings in Krugerdorf. What a treasure trove you must have! I especially love the one she took of Granny & Grandad’s old house, which has since been painted many times (including a couple versions I did). And her geneological explorations after she retired were fascinating. The fact that she had so many interests, and a great sense of humour made her lots of fun to be around.
I was really honoured when she gifted me a bunch of painting supplies her mom had left behind on one of my last trips home. Even though the paints were past their usable life, I did manage to use several other bits & bobs from the package, and it felt really special to have that connection.
I hope you can find comfort in each other in this sad time.
Sending much love.
Heather MacPherson
Heather MacPherson, le 2 juin 2021
Wendy and Beth
Wendy and Beth and families, we were so sorry to see your Mom had passed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. She will be missed on Algonquin!
Paul and Marjorie Harvey, le 2 juin 2021
Wendy.... Beth and Families
Thoughts are with you....Cathy will be missed at our Algonquin get togethers on Judy’s deck. Keep memories close to your heart.
Linda Wilson, le 2 juin 2021
Wendy, Beth and families
Ken and I were so sorry to hear the sad news of your Mom's passing. We have so many fond memories of your Mom & Dad up north, especially when we all gathered at Bill & Shirley's Farm. I'll always remember the Christmas your Mom sewed my sister Marcia and I stylish Barbie Doll clothes for our dolls out of extra black velvet material she had while my Mom stayed up all Christmas Eve sewing on the snaps. Because of your Mom, we had a very special Christmas unwrapping those beautiful Barbie Doll clothes. Hoping your memories help you all through this difficult time.
Lots of Love, Cousins Laurie & Ken Wood
Laurel & Ken Wood, le 2 juin 2021
Wendy, Beth, and your families
My thoughts are with you. I have fond memories of Aunt Cathy that will long outlast the sadness of her passing. My dad, George, is very sad to lose his sister. But he takes comfort in knowing that she is at peace. Although we can’t be together with you right now, know that we are celebrating her life with you in spirit.
Jeff Cole and family and George and Doris Cole, le 2 juin 2021
Blackburn family
I wish to extend my deep sympathies to your family. I work with Mrs. Blackburn at KLCVI and knew her quite well. She was a great person, kind and had a great sense of humor.
Andre Normand Gagnon, le 4 juin 2021
Cathy Blackburn's Family
Sorry for your loss.. Cathy was my Gym teacher at KLCVI and later in life we connected as friends .. I'm very thankful for that. A great lady ...
Gail Mahoney, le 5 juin 2021
Wendy and Beth and their families.
Cathy was “one of us”, a tightly knit group of women who graduated from the University of Toronto, PHE 6T0. We have managed to get together every year, for the past 5 or 6 years (until the pandemic). In the spring we would meet for lunch, of course in the Toronto area, but Cathy would drive down in her “Benz” with very little complaints. Then in the fall we would gather at Niagara-on-the-Lake where we would stay at Queens Landing for 3 days and 2 nights, taking in a play, shopping, enjoying fine restaurants, and visiting wineries. What fun we had!! We will all miss Cathy, hearing about her latest Ancestry find, her latest travel experience and last, but not least, her daughters and their families (especially those amazing grandchildren!). She was so proud of them. It is really difficult to bid farewell to a classmate and a long time friend. We have many good memories. May she Rest In Peace.
Beverley Mitchell , le 5 juin 2021
Blackburn Family
My deepest sympathy on your mom’s passing.
I always enjoyed our conversation. May she RIP
MSG
MSG, le 5 juin 2021
Blackburn Family and extended family
Im so sorry to hear of Mrs Blackburn's passing i was shocked when i came across her obit. Now she is reunited with the love of her life her husband Bud. My mom im sure welcomed her into her forever home as my mom used to work at KLCVI with cleaning staff and knew all teachers. RIP MRS B
Nicole Moreau, le 5 juin 2021
Beth , Wendy and your families
Our condolences on the passing of you mom. Our families have know each other a long time from friendship, business ,Windsor valley ( skiing and picking blueberries) and school.
Karen and The Smaill family
Karen Smaill Byham, le 8 juin 2021
The Blackburn Family
My sincere condolences in your loss. I have known Cathy for many years but really got to know her much better during our quilting days. She will be missed by many. May she Rest in Peace.
Ines Robazza, le 8 juin 2021
Beth, Wendy and family
Cathy was an amazing, special lady and I am so thankful I got to know her and Bud before moving away. She spoke so proudly of her daughters and their families, I know you were the brightest of the lights of her life. I know I'm not the only one who will miss her energy and her can-do attitude. My condolences to you and your family for this loss. I hope your memories of her amazing spirit bring you comfort in this difficult time.
Chrissy Bowman, le 18 juin 2021
Wendy, Beth and Blackburn family
Wendy and Beth, please accept our sympathies on the loss of your mother. Cathy contributed so much to Kirkland Lake as a teacher and researcher after she retired. For my own family genealogy projects and researching for my books at the library, there were dozens of reference binders on births, marriages and deaths dating back to 1923 when the Northern News began, all compiled by Cathy with thousands of hours of dedicated work. And that's just one of her legacies. RIP Cathy. Bill Glover and family.
Bill Glover, le 29 juin 2021
Cathy Blackburn
Please accept my deepest condolences for the death of your mother Cathy. You should be incredibly proud of everything she achieved. I want you to know that she had such a positive impact on so many people’s lives and will always be remembered. She generously shared knowledge, expertise and skills that she shared with me during our many years of teaching & coaching at K.L.C.V.I. mainly in the Physical & Health Education Department. May you find the strength to endure this challenging time.
Carole Sinclair , le 30 juin 2021
Wendy, Beth & families
Please correct the info on the sympathy message.
Carole sinclair, le 30 juin 2021
Mr black burn
I am giving you my condolences to you and your family.
Julie larochelle , le 12 octobre 2022
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