Katherine Szabo

Katharine, or Kathy (with a K, as she would always make sure you knew) is survived by her loving husband of 71 years, Anton “Tony” Szabo; her children, Anton “Tony” (Tony Jr.) Szabo, Marlynda Szabo, and Christine White; her grandchildren, Austin Szabo, Sarah Archer (Michael), and Joshua Szabo; her great-grandson, Nathaniel Archer; and her siblings, Helen Faul, George Huber (Lorna), John Huber (Maureen), and Margaret Huber. She was predeceased by her sister, Elizabeth King (David).

Kathy’s life was a long and eventful one. Born on December 30, 1933, growing up during the Second World War, her character and priorities were shaped by the hardships she endured, the opportunities she wished she had, and the experiences that eventually brought her and her family from a small town in Yugoslavia to Port Colborne, where she met her husband-to-be.

Kathy was always a curious individual. Whether it was almost missing her ship in Paris while trying to see the Eiffel Tower without a map or knowledge of the French language as she immigrated to Canada ahead of her family with her sister, Helen, or striking up a conversation with guests at the South Landing Inn, which she and Tony owned and operated for decades after retirement, she embraced every opportunity to learn about the people and the world around her. Her curiosity and love of learning led her to encourage the younger generations around her to do their best, keep asking questions, and never stop learning.

Nothing made Kathy happier than having her family together. Family was at the center of her life, but her kindness naturally extended to friends, neighbours, and guests alike. She made it a priority to bring people together, and no gathering was ever complete without food. Whether it was Sunday lunch, Christmas dinner, or simply stopping by to say hello, there was always a place at her table and a plate waiting for you. She passed down her recipes the same way she passed down family traditions. Rarely were they written down; instead, she taught them by inviting you into the kitchen to make them together.

Katharine will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on through the meals she taught others to prepare, the stories she shared, and the traditions she lovingly passed from one generation to the next.

The family would like to thank everyone for the love, kindness, and support they have received. In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Katherine's memory, honouring her lifelong spirit of generosity and giving.

Visitation will take place at Patterson Funeral Home Ltd., 6062 Main St., Niagara Falls, ON, L2G5Z9, CA, on July 11, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. followed by a funeral service in the Chapel