Kathleen Marsia Watkins

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Kathleen Marsia Watkins (Kathy), on January 18th in her 80th year. She was surrounded with love by her immediate family.

Born Katusha Marsia Podovinikoff on August 25, 1944 in Grand Forks BC to Peter C. and Mary Podovinikoff, she was the youngest of four siblings raised in the Doukhobor faith on a farm in the 'Nursery' area.

She graduated from Grand Forks Secondary and went on to attend Business College in Trail. After time spent working in Calgary, she relocated t o Vancouver where she was an assistant to the manager of the Bank of Montreal on Granville St.

Kathy met Jack Watkins in Vancouver and they married in 1971. Keri was born in 1973 and Rob followed in 1974, along with a move to Coquitlam BC.

Kathy returned to work with her dear friend Ann Brady in the mid-80’s at Hitz Boutique on Robson St. in Vancouver. This kept her solidly in the loop of all the latest fashion and footwear, and many of her nieces, nephews, and kids' friends dressed in style. She and Ann enjoyed numerous trips for the store to tradeshows in California and Las Vegas.

Known for her infectious laugh, love of all things sparkly, and endlessly selfless nature, she had many friends and interests along with a resilient spirit and beautiful strength of character. She was known by quite a few names over the years by those that loved her...Kathy, Katusha, Kate, Kathy Sr., Baba, AK and Ma.

She was fortunate to have met and traveled extensively with her amazing partner, Ray Whitehead in the years after her retirement.

She had fun as a member of the Red Hat Society and took part in weekly painting and pottery groups. She could cook, sew, and fix anything.

Kathy was preceded by her brothers Mitchel Chernoff (Polly), Peter Podovinikoff (Molly), Fred Podovinnikoff, husband Jack Watkins, and beloved companion, Ray Whitehead.

Kathy is survived by her daughter Keri Watkins, son Rob Watkins (Kathy), and sister-in-law Jean Podovinnikoff.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society, in memory of our beautiful Mom.

A Celebration will be held on February 8, 2025, at Minnekhada Lodge from 12-4. Please come help us honour her life.

"May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rain fall soft upon your fields and, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand." - An Irish Blessing