Kathleen Elizabeth Hill

KATHLEEN ELIZABETH BEAUMONT HILL On June 27, 2018, Canada lost an amazing lady. “Katie” Hill, affectionately known as “The Pigeon” passed away peacefully, in her 90th year, surrounded by her family. Her death was preceded by that of her beloved husband, Jim, in 2014. They were a remarkable pair. She is survived by her brother Henry Beaumont, her sons Brian (Andrea), Ross (Jane), daughter Nancy, and grandchildren Natalie, Oscar, Beaumont, and Paloma. She was predeceased by her parents Arthur and Ida Beaumont and her sister Ellen Cherry. Born in Ponoka, and raised in Lethbridge, Alberta, Katie attended high school at Qu’Appelle Diosesan School For Girls in Regina. That boarding school experience had a profound positive influence upon her. For the rest of her adult life she made the Hill family home, “the Hill Hilton,” a place of loving welcome to their friends, her children’s friends, relatives, and many Mexican students. She graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, as did all three of her children. She never forgot her amazing Queen’s experience. She became one of its most active supporters, particularly as a recruiter par excellence. Katie regularly hosted events to encourage young potential students to make the long trek across the country to her Alma Mater. Years later, the “Kathleen Beaumont Hill Award” was established in her honour. It is bestowed annually on the most outstanding Queen’s alumni from British Columbia based upon meaningful contribution to society and commitment to the University. Katie loved her job working for Canadian Pacific Airlines, flying to northern B.C. And overseas, in the early 1950’s. She later created what was to be her favourite job as a ground hostess at YVR before becoming the Vice President‘s Secretary. Her volunteer work was an important part of her life. For years she was active with the Salvation Army canvassing persuasively, and encouraging others to do the same in the annual Red Shield appeal. Katie was a pillar of her church and volunteered for over 20 years at the Vancouver Art Gallery. As a member of the Arbutus Club, she was a linchpin in the Walking Group, and later in the Aquafit programs encouraging members to participate. The annual Sun Run would inevitably see Katie, ready to participate with friends in tow. For all of her successes and triumphs, Katie was proudest of her own family. She always made time to drive the kids anywhere and provide a meal with a smile on her face and never a complaint. Her fierce loyalty and strength of character built three strong willed and independent children. Her commitment and dedication to the business provided a foundation of support to help build the family business into what it is today. Katie and Jim raised Brian, Ross, and Nancy to be a reflection of all they believed in, and were enriched and rewarded in their grandchildren, Natalie, Oscar, Beau, and Paloma. Radiantly beautiful in her trademark pink lipstick Katie was a renowned hostess, enjoying dinners out with Jim at Il Giardino every Friday night and hosting their annual New Year’s Eve and summer parties. Mother, counsellor, mentor, beloved friend, Katie left a legacy for all of us in how to be a good citizen. She will never be forgotten. A special thank you to Rudy Svarovsky and to her dedicated caregivers Perlita Dadbe, Lillian Tanoja, and Helen Werry. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm at St. Mary’s Church, 2490 West 37th Avenue in Vancouver on Wednesday, August 29th, 2018. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit our website at www.mountpleasantfuneral.com.