Catherine Diane Whyard

Catherine “Diane” Whyard (née Causley) passed late in the day on February 5, 2024 from rapid onset Alzheimer’s disease at Misericordia Health Centre in Winnipeg. Born to Desiree St.Leger Hayward and James Robert Causley on September 8, 1944, in Worthing, Sussex, UK, was brought to Canada as an infant and grew up in Southern Ontario.

In 1969, Diane, a 9 ½ fingered (thanks Barb), European educated debutante met proto-veterinarian Bruce Howard Whyard who convinced her to marry and move to Winnipeg where Diane commenced her nursing career. As a graduate from Guelph School of Nursing in 1965 her journey in nursing led her to Deer Lodge Hospital, where she dedicated herself to caring for others who suffered from Alzheimer's with compassion and skill.

Diane, with her husband Bruce, travelled extensively around the world. During summer months Diane enjoyed spending time with her family at the cottages on Thunder Bay Beach and on Bird Lake. When travelling and at the cottage they were often accompanied by cherished friends and extended family. Diane’s life was defined by her devotion to family and her fun-loving nature. She is survived by her loving husband Bruce, her brother Stephen James Causley (Faye), her son Christopher James Whyard (Rhoni), their children Findley Eugene Whyard and Margot St.Leger Whyard, and her daughter and namesake Ashley Diane Buchan. Despite her illness, her spirit remained strong.

Diane, surrounded by her family, peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love and caring. A celebration of her life will be held for friends and family this summer. Donations in her memory to The Misericordia Health Centre Foundation who’s staff showed Diane outstanding care and compassion during her brief stay with them, or to the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba are appreciated in lieu of flowers. Her son Chris says he is also taking donations in his mother’s name, but is rather vague in what he intends on using it for.

Mum, we love and miss you. Rest in peace.