OBITUARY
Kathryn Ann Gillis
August 15, 1941 – February 19, 2021
Passed away after a loving good-bye from family at BGH following complications from surgery.
Beloved wife of Douglas for over 58 years and loving mother to Kimberley and Stephen, she is also survived by her younger brother Douglas (Peggy). Adoring aunt to Jonathan (Jennifer) and Carolyn (Greg) and great aunt to Ben, Regan, Jessica, Robert and Caitie. A retiree of Brant CAS, Kathryn’s career spanned over twenty years. From the beginning, she believed that changed was possible, and that she wanted to be part of the solution. In the early 80's she helped pioneer a support model for young moms and their babes. Starting as an administrative assistant, she and a group of volunteers, applied for the funding that launched the CALM program (Caring Adults and Loving Moms). This was part of the start of community outreach for the agency. With the opening of the FRC, (Family Resource Centre) she was grandfathered-in and became a Children's Services worker. Here she was very involved with the preparation for independence program; a model to teach basic skills to Crown Wards. Her career then took her to the main office were she advocated for teens. Although she retired from the Crown Ward Unit, she returned many times to assist the agency in the preparation for the Crown Ward Review. Kathryn was respected for her hard work and dedication. Her strong work ethic, compassion and desire to serve will not be forgotten. In her spare time Kathryn could often be found in various ice rinks, across southern Ontario and south of the border, both as a spectator and volunteer for the Brantford Church Hockey League and the Brant Figure Skating Club. Taking on the role of stage director for Flashing Blades went hand in hand with getting up at the crack of dawn to make and sell breakfast sandwiches at the BCHL Tournament of Friends. In warmer temperatures, she also enjoyed acting as scorekeeper at t-ball games. Born with a talent for knitting and sewing Kathryn discovered a passion for all things quilting. Her friends in Paris are rumoured to already miss her “sew” much. Trips to Greece and Italy with Doug were particularly happy times filled with adventure. Kathryn will be remembered for her desire to help any friend in need, her devotion to family and her love of giving unsolicited advice. She was also an Ottawa kid and we’d be remiss if we didn’t share one of Kathryn’s most long-held and unwavering views: “Anyone but the Habs.” Friends will be received at the "THORPE BROTHERS' FUNERAL HOME", 96 West St., On Wednesday, February 24, 2021 from 4-6pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church, 9 Waverly St., Brantford on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 11am. If you would like to attend either of these events you must first RSVP by calling 519-759-2211 to book an available time slot for visiting or for a seat at Mass. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared below.
Services
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Visitation
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
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Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, February 25, 2021
Memories
Kathryn Ann Gillis
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYAmy Flanagan
February 28, 2021
I worked with Kathryn at the Brant CAS back in the 90s She was a lovely lady, always helping her co-workers and so wonderful with the children & youth she worked with!!!
I remember she was so proud of her family! I am sorry for your loss!
Amy Flanagan (nee, Ireland)
Elaine McBane
February 25, 2021
Doug,Kim and Steven
Doug and Peggy (Kelcher)
It is with a heavy heart that I am sending my condolences to you by mail and not being able to be there in person.
Kathryn and Doug and brother Doug Kelcher (Peggy) so graciously made trips to Ottawa, Pembroke and
Quyon Quebec to say good bye to first cousins... .Our entire
McBane family did appreciate their presence..
Prayers and thoughts are with you,
Jean Kennedy and family
Elaine McBane
Wanda Vella
February 25, 2021
To Doug and family,
It is with a heavy heart that I write this. I was shocked to hear of Kathryn's passing. My sincerest condolences for the loss of this no-nonsense, yet compassionate woman who will live on in the hearts of those who had the honour of knowing her. May your many happy memories comfort you in the days ahead.
Keeping you all in my prayers. Hugs, Wanda Vella (BrantCAS coworker)
John Wade
February 24, 2021
John Wade
24 February 2021
Doug, Kim and Stephen,
We were truly saddened to hear of the passing of Kathryn.
Living in Ottawa our encounters were infrequent but we could always count on lots of great laughs and stories.
Kathryn was truly a beautiful person .
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family.
John & Evelyne
Ottawa
Nikki Maurer(Mackay)
February 24, 2021
Dear Doug, Kim and Stephen,
I was am so sorry to hear of your family's loss. I have fond memories of your family and spending time together at your house when we were growing up. Your mom was an amazing person! She was a proud and skating and hockey mom. She had such a big caring heart. My condolences to all of you.
Nikki Maurer
Paula Loube
February 24, 2021
Kathryn was like mother earth!! She was so great to me when I broke my ankle - she was happy to take me around to my physio and also visit and just have a talk (1996). At Brant FACS her desk was just outside my office and I think we became even closer. She was all about the kids. Her crown wards were like her dear family. She was so involved in their lives and helped them in any way. We will miss you so much Kathryn but I have very fond memories of you - your smile and your laugh.
Mary Miller
February 24, 2021
I think of Kathryn at the Etonia Church where quilters gathered twice a month to sew and socialize. She always said hello and checked in to see how my current quilting project was going and ask what trouble I was up to lately. :-) Sometimes if I spoke to her on the phone I would jokingly greet her with "Hi Trouble, it's Chaos", how are you doing?" Kathryn was very knowledgeable and involved in the Paris Quilting Bees Outreach program. I will miss seeing her at Etonia. My heartfelt sympathy to her family.
Mary Miller
dianne kealey
February 24, 2021
Dear Doug, Kim and Stephen,
I truly regret not being able to be with you at this very sad time. Kathryn would be so proud of all of you.
...So many memories. Our families enjoyed many memorable moments growing up in Ottawa. Plenty of laughter and food were on the menu when the Kelchers and Wades congregated in the kitchen! After Kathryn left Ottawa, she and I shared many phone calls - sometimes happy news, sometimes sad news but always ...so glad to hear from you. Kathryn's last call to me on Dec 31 began with Happy Birthday Dianne.
True loving memories have no endings ...
Cousin Dianne
Michael and Lorraine Wade
February 24, 2021
Kathryn was a kind and lovely person. She always took the time to call her Uncle Copps and Aunt Anne in Ottawa . My father (Copps Wade) would always say, you know it is Christmas because I just received a Christmas cake from Kathryn.
Our condolences to all, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Michael & Lorraine Wade
Ottawa
William and Eileen Country
February 24, 2021
We know that this must be a very difficult and demanding time for you all. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, you have our deepest and sincerest sympathy. As the Irish proverb says, "words are very few, deep thoughts and memories we will always keep and may they stay with you. " Bill and Eileen, Ottawa
Doug & Linda Richardson
February 23, 2021
Doug and Family,
Linda and I were deeply saddened to read this morning of Kathryn's passing. Our memories of her span sports, a mutual interest in quilting and the Brant Men of Song. We always admired her congeniality, enthusiasm and willingness to help others. What a wonderful legacy Kathryn has left for you and everyone who had the honour of knowing her.
May her attributes bring wonderful memories for all of you.
Doug and Linda Richardson
Lorna Zubrickas
February 23, 2021
I had the honour of meeting Kathryn through the Paris Quilting Bees Guild. Kathryn lived her values of kindness, caring and generosity. She connected our guild to those who were in need within the community. She lead and encouraged all of us to give from our hearts. Kathryn shopped at our retail store in Brantford and got to know my husband. He looked forward to their weekly chats and he too is mourning her loss. We would like to express our deepest sympathies to her family and friends. We hope your fond memories of Kathryn will give you comfort at this time as it does us. Please take care of one another as it would be what Kathryn wanted.
Stacey Singleton
February 22, 2021
Doug, Kim and Stephen,
I am so sorry to hear of Kathryn's passing. I met Kathryn at Brant CAS when I started in 1993 and have many wonderful memories of working with her. She was a fierce advocate for children and families, a support to her colleagues and a wealth of knowledge. She was also pretty great at cheering on the Brant CAS softball team! My condolences to all of you and hope that you can find some peace in the many memories that you have.
Stacey
Sarah Robertson
February 22, 2021
I had the pleasure of working with Kathryn at Brant FACS and my memories of her included her compassion and deep care for the children and families she worked with. She had a very fun sense of humour and was always willing to go above and beyond. I am sorry for your loss and hope memories continue to fill the space left in your heart.
Sarah
Maria McCann
February 22, 2021
I'm really sorry to hear of Kathryn's passing. I worked with Kathryn at BrantFACS for several years and have fond memories of her. My heartfelt condolences to all of her family.
Sincerely, Maria McCann
Joanna Mills
February 22, 2021
I am so sorry to hear about Kathryn's passing. My condolences to her family and close friends. As a former and long-time Children's Service worker at Brant FACS, I worked with Kathryn over the years and benefitted from her insight and experience. Kathryn had great energy and enthusiasm for the children and youth she worked with and it was a loss for the community when she left the agency to start another chapter in her life - retirement. Although we didn't stay in touch I have often thought about Kathryn since her retirement. I will remember her fondly and hope that those closest to her will take solace in happy memories...Be at peace Kathryn.
Maida Aranyosi
February 22, 2021
Dear Doug, Stephen and Kim. My sincere condolences for your loss.
I was Kathryn's Unit Assistant for many years at Brant CAS starting at CALM. As her UA I found Kathryn to be reliable, kind, caring, and always willing to assist anyone. Kathryn was very committed to the children on her caseload. Oh so many memories, laughing till your stomach hurt, sharing wonderful recipes, and dreams of travelling to Europe.
May your memories help all of you through this difficult time.
Bernadette Gallagher
February 21, 2021
Dear Doug, Stephen and Kim I want to say how sorry I am for your loss. I worked with Kathryn at Brant Family and Children’s Services for many years and Kathryn was one of the reason I stayed in child welfare. She had a wicked sense of humour and an infectious laugh. She was extremely caring, and always ready to do what was needed for children. I have great memories of attending Youth in Care retreats with her. Family was everything to her. I will miss her.
Steve Mackay
February 21, 2021
Dear Doug Steve and Kim i am truly sorry to hear of your family's loss. I have many fond memories of kathryn growing up as one of my "rink moms" and the many visits in your home growing up.
Cheryl Hyndman
February 21, 2021
Dear Doug Steven and Kim....I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Kathryn was an amazing woman! I was responsible for making her more beautiful and every visit consisted of stories of her family! We even shared a red wine occasionally after her hair was beautiful. I’m going to miss her humour her caring and understanding ways she had of everyone she met.....please know as her hairstylist and confidant she loved her family more than life itself! She will be missed and your wonderful memories of a your precious Wife and Mother will live on in your hearts forever. God Bless xo
Roy Walsh
February 21, 2021
To Doug, Kim, and Stephen
Phyllis and I wish to convey to you our kindest thoughts and prayers in these most sad days.
To me Kathryn as a colleague reflected commitment,reliability, competence, and a willingness to do or be assigned to do whatever was required of her in her service to Children and Families.
Her tongue in cheek humour, and her always being there to contribute to the fun in her unit was always appreciated.
Having been guests in your home and near pew mates in St Pius were privileges remembered.
We know you will get some solace from your faith but most will come from cherish ed memories of a life lived together in love with Kathryn your wife and mother and grandmother.
mary connan
February 21, 2021
I met Kathryn through quilting several years ago and we never looked back. She was such a kind, thoughtful, and loving friend, always looking out for others and never asking for help in return. She drove me to so many doctor's appointments when I couldn't drive, phoned to check up on me, support myself and my family and would even volunteer to babysit my granddaughters. Her homemade pizza rocked!
Over the years we shared sew many good times together, quilting , joking, laughing, teasing, and trying to "keep each other out of trouble."
My profound condolences go out to Doug, Kim and Steve. I hope your beautiful memories of your wife and mom help sustain you through this very sorrowful time.
Goodbye my precious friend. Rest in peace until we quilt together again.
Kim McAllister
February 20, 2021
Many years ago when I was still doing my Placement Kathryn was my mentor! She showed me the ins and outs of our work and how to best support and advocate for “our children”. I had the opportunity to do two contracts when Kathryn was off having knee surgeries. I fondly remember our weekly lunchtime supervision’s where she with her puppy would give me direction and support my learning. She was an advocate devoted to what was best for the children and families that she worked with. I loved when Kathryn would speak of the “old days” and would reminisce about our co-workers. She was a great co-worker and a wonderful role model.
Gwen Brewer
February 20, 2021
Kathryn and I met at the Paris Quilting Bees and we became very good friends. She was always looking out for everyone in her life, and was very much a 'Mother-type' figured to myself and quite a few others. Kathryn was a big part of our Outreach in our guild. She let our members know what size of quilts were needed 'sew' she had them on hand to deliver when necessary. When we sewed at Etonia (before Covid) Kathryn and I would get there early and would help set up the tables and during this time we would laugh and talk while complaining why did we get there 'sew' early. When other quilters would come in, she would say 'hey trouble'. My friend, I am going to miss our many telephone conversations each week. I send condolences to Doug, Kim and Stephen.
ANN Verth
February 20, 2021
Kathryn was a steady rock in our Paris Quilting Bees. Her contributions to "Outreach" in our Guild will be very much missed. Her kind words to all will not be forgotten. Rest in Peace Kathryn.
Ann Verth
Catherine ten Hertog
February 20, 2021
I worked with Kathryn at the Family Resource Centre when Kathryn was a Children's Services Worker and when she was running the Preparation for Independent Living group. Kathryn was fiercely caring of her "children" and invariably went above and beyond to help them prepare and problem solve for their young independence from care. Kathryn was kind and had such a warm heart. She and I had back to back cubicles back in the mid 1990s and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her. She will be missed. Sending condolences to Doug, Kim and Stephen. A much loved wife and mother and a lovely work colleague.
Alyssa Mitchell
February 20, 2021
So sorry for your loss. I worked with Kathryn for a little while at Child and Family services before she retired. I remember her great sense of humour and her strong advocacy for children and youth. She will be missed.