Kathryn Beatrice Canitz (nee Hamernes) passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 10, 2023. Born on December 28, 1928 to Knute and Bertha Hamernes near Halvorgate, Saskatchewan, she loved the company of her family - her mother, stepfather Henry Bradley, sisters Margaret, Hazel, Dorothy, Lorraine, Lois, Marion and brother Duane.
She attended Normal School in Moose Jaw, and after graduating she took a teaching position north of Calderbank. During this time she met Ralph Canitz and they were married June 2, 1951. She was a wonderful mother to Glenna, Blaine, Brenda, Shelley and Marilynn - although we gave her several strong moments of exasperation. She rejoiced over the arrival of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Kathryn loved a good book, a brisk cup of tea, visits with friends and family, an occasional rum and coke and a winning streak at the casino. Like many women of her era, she could cook for a crowd, garden and preserve a winter's worth of food, settle squabbling children and drive a grain truck. It was therefore not surprising that she toured the province, working with many groups including the Status of Women and the National Farmers Union, to support the rights and work of women through the Matrimonial Property Act.
Kathryn developed dementia in her later years but in spite of this she retained her wisdom, wit and a fondness for poetry and song. We will miss her deeply but her love stays with us.
Mom loved ice cream. As the warmth of summer envelopes us, have a bowl of ice cream in her honour and enjoy the world around you.
In lieu of flowers, donations to support literacy in Saskatchewan would be welcome here https://saskatooncommunityfoundation.ca
Arrangements entrusted to Ashley Knash.
