Kathleen Brookfield

Kathleen Brookfield, born Kathleen Scott on September 18, 1939, in Hartlepool, England, passed away peacefully in the morning of December 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, devotion, and love.

Born just after the outbreak of the Second World War, Kathleen (known as Katie or Kate), grew up alongside her five siblings: Malcolm, Edwin, Beryl, Janet, and John. They played on the beaches of Seaton Carew, had fish and chips and ice creams together as a family.

Kathleen was serious about learning, and pursued her passion for science in teacher’s college. Her biology students in England remembered her creativity and enthusiasm for the natural world. Whether uncovering vole skeletons to spark curiosity or leading adventurous trips abroad, like a memorable journey to Turkey, Kathleen inspired countless young minds to see the wonder in the natural world. Her heart, filled with curiosity and passion, led her through life with a zeal for learning and exploration.

Kathleen met the love of her life, Michael Brookfield in Reading, England. They were married in 1968, beginning a partnership marked by deep affection and shared purpose. A year later, they embarked on a new chapter together across the ocean by ship, to Guelph, Canada.

Kathleen raised two children, Robert and Caroline, with fierce dedication. She was a tireless advocate for their education, ensuring they had every opportunity to thrive. Her unwavering support and guidance shaped their lives and reflected her lifelong belief in the power of learning. She took on that challenge herself, returning to school to obtain both a Bachelor’s degree in English from Guelph University, where she won the Gold Medal, and a Master’s degree from McMaster University.

Kathleen discovered the Baha’i faith in Guelph, becoming a passionate believer and advocate for its teachings of equality of all people and universal peace. As a cherished member of the Guelph community, Kate was known for speaking her mind, particularly in the face of injustice. She was a fierce champion for other causes that promoted disadvantaged people around the world, especially women. Right to Learn Afghanistan (was Women for Women in Afghanistan), Teddies for Tragedies, and Voice of Women for Peace were some of many organizations she supported with her time and donations. She also loved to support the World Wildlife Fund and ordered new wildlife socks every year for the whole family. Her passion and spirit made her a dedicated champion for those needing support.

Her grandchildren Liam, Amelia and Cole, loved to go on excursions with Grandma, not knowing what they would find around the corner. From the Experimental Farm in Ottawa to the Calgary Zoo, Scotland and beyond, she shared her love for life and the natural world with a passion. Kate was always finding fun excursions, concerts, and kid’s activities. A particular favourite was a trip to Nova Scotia, where the whole family stayed in a lovely house by the sea. Kate loved the beach, and she delighted in watching the grandchildren play in the waves.

Kate loved animals, and had many dogs over the years. As a young girl her family had Snowy, a lovely white poodle. Later, her “heart dog”, Solomon was a great source of joy, comfort and laughter over the years. She loved walking Caroline’s dogs Sharra and Yoshi when she visited Calgary, and spent many dog walking days near Arkell.

Kathleen and Michael went on many adventures during their 57 years together, from crossing Canada by car, to living in India and Taiwan, exploring the Himalayan mountains, and many other exotic and less exotic locations. In their later years together they enjoyed frequent cruises, often “repositioning” cruises that took them to Europe, the Azores, Australia and other corners of the world.

Kate made friends wherever she went, with her enthusiasm, positivity and open-minded acceptance of all people. She loved ice cream, walking in nature, and spending time with friends. She was never the quietest person in the room, but she was often the most gregarious, the most curious, and the most generous.

Kathleen is survived by her husband Michael, her children Robert and Caroline, her grandchildren Liam, Amelia, and Cole, and her siblings Janet, Ratnamayi, and John. She is predeceased by her brothers Edwin and Malcolm and sister-in-law Helen.

Everyone whose life Kate touched will remember her as a woman who lived authentically, with purpose, strength and generosity. With Kate, you always got the real deal, no substitutes. Her zest for life never wavered, and this legacy lives on in the family and friends she leaves behind.

Kate was buried at the Woodlawn Cemetery in a small ceremony following the practices of her Baha’i faith. A celebration of life will be planned for spring 2026. If you would like to mark her passing, in lieu of flowers, please make a gift to a charity of your choice.