Kathy Whalen

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Kathy Whalen. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person. Kathy was someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Kathy was a talkative person who was genuine, kind and impeccable with her word.

Kathy was born in London, Ontario, and later lived in both Scarborough and Kingston. She was the daughter of Mary Josephine Walsh and Walter Hilarion Whalen. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Kathy was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She naturally would show sympathy for everyone she met and strive to perform great acts of kindness. She was extremely humble. These admirable qualities would become a part of Kathy's personality throughout her life.

Though Kathy was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Kathy was raised with four siblings. She had three sisters, Karen, Mary-Beth and Shirley, and one brother, Stephen. Kathy and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

For Kathy, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Kathy was also adept at details, being very observant. She graduated from Senator O'Connor College School and enjoyed some courses more than others.

There was one thing that all of Kathy's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that she could always make effortless conversation. She was always a great listening ear, and would provide advice to whomever needed it. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Kathy was such a loved person throughout her life. Kathy was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. She was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While she maintained personal standards and her own personal values, Kathy was very accepting of others. When Kathy made friends, she made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of her best friends were Cathy Hanlon, Patsy Corson, Marylou Linton and many more. Later in life, she became friends with many, including several neighbours and co-workers.

Harmony was important to Kathy and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Kathy was blessed with three children, fraternal twins, Alexander and Bradley and younger daughter Meagan. Kathy was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Kathy would listen before she would act.

Taking her work seriously came naturally to Kathy, and she expected the same from those around her. Kathy was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Kathy was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Kathy handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” Her primary occupation was as a Financial Planner. She was employed for over 40 years at the Royal Bank of Canada. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.

Whenever she could manage, Kathy loved to engage in her favourite leisurely activities and pastimes. Her favourite pursuits were gardening, reading and travel. She loved a good book by the pool or even the beach. Most good friends will never forget the amount of fun had in the backyard at the house on Prince of Wales drive. Many pool parties were had, and Kathy always made a great host.

Kathy was a lover of animals too and cherished her pets. Her favourite was a Shitzu - Lhasa Apso puppy named Teddy.

Her high moral standards and traditional values served her well. She was raised Catholic and strived to grow in her faith. She was a great role model and lead by example when it came to passing this on to her children. She always encouraged prayer and self-reflection.

Kathy passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at home on March 30, 2020. Services were held at Oshawa Funeral Home. She was then laid to rest with her son Bradley at Thornton Cemetery, in Oshawa, Ontario.

And whenever she said something, she meant it. Kathy was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Kathy Whalen

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WHALEN, Kathy (Kathryn), 62, passed away unexpectedly in her home on Monday, March 30, 2020. She was born to parents Walter and Mary (Walsh) on November 15, 1957 and was the loving sister of Mary Beth (Craig), Shirley, Steve, and the late Karen. Adored mom of her sons Alex, the late Bradley, and her daughter Meagan. She will be missed dearly by her many incredible friends and extended family members, including Meagan’s father, Craig McVety, as well as her “RBC family” after having been an impactful team member of the Royal Bank of Canada for over forty years.

Kathy held many things near and dear, including her passion for travel, reading, gardening and looking after her loyal dog and sidekick, Teddy. All whom loved her dearly will never forget her overwhelming sense of compassion, inner strength, and particularly contagious smile. Forever in our hearts.