Catherine Ann (MacFarlane) McCallum

It is with deep love that we announce the passing of Catherine Ann McCallum, who died on May 3, 2026, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, at the age of 67. Born in Guelph, Ontario, on February 6, 1959, Catherine carried her roots with her throughout her life, even as she made a home on the East Coast.

Catherine is lovingly remembered by her husband, Douglas; her children, Courtney Turney (Jonathan) and Eric McCallum (Wilson); her granddaughter Ava; her sister, Sandy Drexler (Lee), her brother-in-law Ed McCallum (Deb), sister-in-law Cindy Vaillancourt (Dennis), her seven nephews and one niece; and her dear friend Michael Frias, whose coffee dates with Catherine - especially over this past year - brought her comfort, companionship, and laughter. Catherine was predeceased by her parents John (“Jack”) and Jean MacFarlane.

At the heart of Catherine’s story was her love for Douglas. Together for 50 years and married for 48, they built a life grounded in partnership, loyalty, and shared experiences. He was not only her husband, but her constant companion and closest friend. Through every chapter - raising a family, travelling, navigating life’s challenges, and simply enjoying the everyday - they stood side by side. Douglas often gave Catherine yellow roses, a simple but lasting symbol of the love, friendship, and commitment they shared.

She was a devoted and deeply proud grandmother to her only grandchild, Ava Catherine, who was without question the light of her life. Catherine’s face would brighten instantly in Ava’s presence, and some of her happiest moments were simply spent together in Grammi’s craft room - sharing stories, and making memories that will go well beyond the scrapbooks they made together.

Catherine loved to travel and found joy in reading, crafts, and researching her family ancestry - a passion that led to new discoveries, connections, and stories. She had a strong personality - stubborn and opinionated, and never one to hold back her thoughts, even to the very end. She was also warm, expressive, and full of life. Those who knew her will remember her smile, her spirit, and the way she showed up for the people she loved.

Diagnosed with cancer just one year ago, Catherine chose to spend the time she had being with family, travelling when she could, finding meaning in the quiet moments, and enjoying as much seafood as possible. Time spent sharing stories, laughter, and simply being present with one another became what mattered most.

A private burial will take place at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Guelph, Ontario, arranged through JA Snow Funeral Home in Halifax and Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Homes in Guelph.

A special thank you to the nurses, physicians and care support workers at Nova Scotia Health that supported Catherine through her journey.

She will be deeply missed and always remembered.