Obituary of Kathleen Ivy Waring

Peacefully at St Josephs Hospice, surrounded by loving family, dear friends and incredible staff at the age of 60. Formerly of London and a longtime resident of Hensall. Loving mother of her twins Kayleigh and Evan. Sister to Robert Albert Waring (Dayle), Edward John Waring (Evelyn Michaud) and Marie Jean (Domonic Grasso). Beloved Aunt “Plant” of Marria (Chris Frayne) Joshua (Kate), Alexander (Carling), Anthony (Jessica), Madeline and Genevieve. Great Aunt of Charlotte, Annabelle, Seth, Lily, Vivian, Eva and Blake. She will also be sorely missed by her Turkish rescue dog Joey. Predeceased by her parents Albert Edward Waring and Jean Muriel (Grundy).

I was honoured when Kathy asked me to write her obituary. But just how do you say farewell to your little sister? One we love and cherish. One we have watched endure years of tests, treatments, chemo, radiation and surgeries without complaint. The one we teased as kids. The one we coerced to taste the “vintage” milk to ensure it was safe for the rest of us cowards to drink. Possessing a true heart of gold and a most incredible work ethic Kathy was a devoted single Mom who always put her family and friends first. Her feisty personality and fierce determination to not just survive but, to prevail, meant she refused to quit. After a stroke ended a successful career as an ever so stylish, high heel wearing hair dresser, Kathy retooled. She envisioned, established and grew Bluewater Industrial Cleaners into a first-class business, highly regarded by her clients. She loved to work and was a perfectionist with exacting standards. Her Company was never short of business. Kathy fought Cancer for 41 years. She was a fighter and an optimist who never gave up on anyone or herself.

Amazingly, Kathy did find time for a few vacations with her friend Kim in Collingwood and in St Maarten in the Caribbean. She had a wonderful time in both locations but proved herself to be a very nervous flyer, so much so that she almost squeezed all the blood out of Kims hand on take off. Kathy leaves behind an endless number of cherished memories to all who knew and loved her. She will be sorely missed.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be planned to take place on a warm sunny Day where fond memories will warm hearts, lift spirits and bring forth smiles, as we remember how blessed we were to have known and loved Kathy, and how much better we are for having had her in our lives. Well Kathy, you may have been a nervous flyer but you are now fearlessly soaring with the Angels. A most special thank you to our wonderful sister Marie for her tireless and continuous loving support, assistance and guidance to Kathy throughout her decades long battle. Many thanks as well to Chrissy, her sister by another mother, for all her assistance in securing a place for Kathy at the St Joseph Hospice. Chrissy’s daughter Jen and, Teri are also considered family. Our sincere gratitude to Dr Winquest, Oncologist, Dr Bauman, Radiologist and Dr Hertzman, Palliative Care and to all the truly wonderful staff and volunteers at the Cancer Clinic and St Josephs Hospice for the exceptional level of care and concern. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St Josephs Hospice or a charity of your