Kathy Konkin

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Kathy Konkin (née Voykin), who passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, with her daughters, Randeen and Sydney, by her side. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, fierce love, and quiet strength.

Kathy was born on June 13, 1947, in Nelson, British Columbia, to Alex and Annie Voykin. As a young child, her life was profoundly altered when she was apprehended by the RCMP and taken to the New Denver Institute, where Sons of Freedom Doukhobor children were confined between 1953 and 1959. During her years there, Kathy endured many forms of abuse and isolation. Visits with her parents were limited to brief moments through a chain-link fence every two weeks, an experience that deeply shaped her life and left an enduring imprint on her heart.

In 1970, Kathy married Joseph Konkin. The years that followed were marked by significant challenges, where she experienced abuse until the marriage ended after two decades. Through it all, Kathy remained steadfast in her devotion to her children. She worked tirelessly to give them the best life she could, finding ways to create joy even in difficult circumstances. She always put her children before herself. Holidays and birthdays were made special through her care and creativity, and she was known as an exceptional cook and passionate gardener who expressed her love through food and nurturing those around her.

Kathy suffered a profound loss in 1979 with the unexpected passing of her mother. Kathy was just 32 years old and had 4 young children at home. Having already been separated from her mother for much of her childhood, this loss was deeply felt, and she carried it through her life. Until the very end, even during periods of confusion, Kathy never stopped talking about her mom.

In 2003, Kathy was fortunate to find love again with Dennis Drozda. Dennis showed Kathy the kind of healthy, unconditional love she had always deserved. He embraced, not only Kathy, but her five children, loving and supporting them as his own. His kindness, patience, and unwavering acceptance gave Kathy and her family a sense of security and belonging that meant more than words can express. Together they shared a joyful chapter filled with travel, laughter, and cherished time spent with family, attending dance recitals, hockey games, celebrations, and hosting countless meals and backyard barbeques for loved ones. Kathy and Dennis visited the Dominican Republic and Cuba and went back to British Columbia many times, creating memories they treasured. Dennis’s passing on March 15, 2023, was a heartbreaking loss but once again Kathy found the strength to carry on with remarkable resilience. Just seven months later, Kathy suffered a massive stroke.

In the final years of her life, Kathy continued to show remarkable strength. Surrounded by love, patience, and great care, she continued to experience many meaningful moments of joy. At Sherbrooke Community Centre, she became a bright light to those around her by lifting spirits with her quick wit, warm presence, and impeccable sense of humor. She continued to share her love of food and connection, enjoying meals and treats brought by her daughters and caregivers, which created moments of togetherness. Kathy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her children: Gerritt (Candice), Sydney (Ken), Karlene, Irina (Jeremy), Randeen (Darcy), her stepchildren: Carmen (Guy), Robin (Nicole), and Kendal (Kris); and by her grandchildren: Seth, Heston, Jayce, Liam, Alexandra, Carter, Adison, Brighton, Grady, Sophie, Alexa, Dane (her Carey Price), and Xander (her teddy bear), Justin, Travis, Gavin, Addisyn, Lena, and Jase. She was predeceased by her mother Annie, her father Alex, her brother Steven and the love of her life, Dennis.

Kathy’s life was one of generosity, courage, and perseverance. Despite many hardships, she remained devoted to her family and found ways to bring light, laughter, and love to those around her. Her strength and spirit will live on through the many lives she touched. Special heartfelt thanks to her patient, caring, and thoughtful caregivers Anjie, Bertha, Grace, Karen, Nancy, Munazza, Nelma, and Roseli. Kathy’s memory will forever be carried in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 2:00pm at Sherbrooke Community Centre, 401 Acadia Dr. Saskatoon, in the Chapel. Reception to follow. All those who loved Kathy as much as we did are welcome to attend.

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine

You make me happy when skies are grey

You'll never know dear, how much I love you

Please don't take my sunshine away.