Katherine "Kathy" Norma Hawkins

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of a truly remarkable woman, Kathy Hawkins, taken far too soon after a sudden illness on April 8, 2026, at the age of 61, surrounded by her loving family. Although her time with us was far too short, the impact she made will last a lifetime.

Kathy was the heart of the home. Her strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family defined who she was. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcomed, cared for, and understood, and her presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew her. Her kindness, resilience, and beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.

Kathy is deeply loved and will be forever missed by her devoted husband, Bob, whose care and devotion never wavered throughout her illness. She was a cherished mother to Kaitlyn (Taylor), Austin (Angel), and Carson, and a proud and loving grandmother to Rheya, who brought her endless joy.

She is survived by her mother, Eleanor, and predeceased by her father, Bertram Lerch. Kathy was a dear sister to Ken, Harold (Marilyn), Paul, Keith (Dolores), Brian (Donna), Wayne, John (Linda), and Karen.

Kathy will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family, all of whom held a special place in her heart. She will also be greatly missed by her many friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The youngest of nine children, Kathy brought a bright and joyful spirit to those around her. She was deeply devoted to her family and friends, always offering kindness, support, and love. She and Bob recently moved into their dream home just outside of Elora, where they looked forward to spending more time close to family—especially their beloved grandchild, whom Kathy adored and lovingly fawned over.

Kathy recently retired from the City of Guelph, where she worked in several departments, including the library, City Hall, and Waste Management. Earlier in her career, she worked at the Royal Bank and Cooke & Denison in Guelph.

Born in Walkerton and raised in Neustadt, Ontario, Kathy grew up in a close-knit family where helping one another was simply a way of life. Whether it was pitching in without being asked, sharing meals, or gathering together after long days, these moments shaped the values she carried throughout her life. She developed a strong work ethic, a deep sense of loyalty, and a genuine belief in showing up for family—lessons she carried forward and passed on to those she loved. After marriage, Kathy and Bob built a life together across Canada, living in Saskatoon, Vancouver, and Brampton before settling in Guelph, where they raised their family.

Kathy had a love for travel and enjoyed visiting Europe, the Caribbean, the United States, and Central America. No matter where her travels took her, her greatest joy was always returning home to her family and friends.

She also found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. Kathy loved to bake and rarely missed an opportunity to attend family gatherings, where her warmth and presence brought people together. She especially cherished summers spent on the water in Sauble Beach and, more recently, in Parry Sound.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and doctors at Sunnybrook, as well as the PSWs and palliative care team, for their compassionate care and support during Kathy’s final months.

Arrangements are entrusted to Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph.

In keeping with Kathy’s wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Italian Canadian Club, 135 Ferguson Street, Guelph, on April 18 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

As expressions of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Autism Ontario would be greatly appreciated by the family.