Catherine Lillian Symons

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Catherine Lillian Symons nee Swepson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Catherine passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 6, 2024, after a long battle with various health issues. She is lovingly remembered as a joy seeker, joy giver and open arms to all in need of shelter.

Born to Elsie and Leslie Swepson on August 30, 1950 in Montreal, Quebec, Catherine spent her teenage years in Brampton, Ontario. Catherine enjoyed farm life close to Mitchell’s Bay, where she raised her two girls, before moving to Wallaceburg. She married Ken Symons in 1988, and together they moved to Kelowna, BC, where they continued to build their life together.

A beacon of warmth and kindness, Catherine was the first smile that welcomed people where she worked at the dental office in Wallaceburg, and at First United Church in Kelowna. She was a loving friend, devoted wife and mother, and a leader in her community. Active in her walking groups, women’s groups and church, Catherine was an advocate for causes close to her heart and a rock to lean on. She is known for her travel adventures and her ability to overcome many physical challenges by always having a trip planned.

Survived by her husband Ken Symons, brother Ross Swepson (Linda), daughters Belinda Burke (Jamie McCrindle), Tanya Burke (Rudolf Seethaler), stepdaughters Jennifer Collop (Larry), Marie Symons, Mary Symons and grandchildren Cole, Natasha, Isabella, Benjamin, Charlotte, Joseph, Felicia, Eric, Bailey, Ian, Julia, Marsh and great grandchildren.

A memorial service to celebrate Catherine’s life will be held at Central Okanagan United Church August 19, 3:00pm. Zoom attendance will be available.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Food Shelf at Central Okanagan United Church or the Canadian Cancer Society in Catherine’s memory.