​Long-time KDSS office manager, Cathy Smith, dies at the age of 59

Catherine (Kate/Cathy) Louise Smith (nee Schmidt) of Tiverton, died suddenly, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, in her 60th year.

Loving mother of Caitlyn (Rob) Wittman of Walkerton and Carly (Mark) McLelland of Hagersville.

Proud grandmother of her granddaughters, Rozlyn and Harleigh; and grandson, Henry.

Fondly remembered by her parents, Barry and Liz Schmidt; her sisters, Lorraine (Wayne) Shelton, Sheryl (Jeff) Elliott, and Sharon (Mike) Moore; sister-in-law, Sue (Brad) Fitzsimmons; brother-in-law, Ken (Sandi) Smith; and dear friends, Kelly and Ken Brown.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, Chris (Smitty) Smith; mother-in-law, Didi Labonte; and niece, Taylor Fitzsimmons.

Cathy will be deeply missed by her family, life-long friends, and her Kincardine District Secondary (now Senior) School (KDSS) family.

She was a vibrant, fun-loving individual who embraced every opportunity for travel, cheered passionately for the Bills, Leafs, and Jays, and eagerly participated in social gatherings.

Cathy could often be found behind the bench at a girls’ hockey game – either her own daughters’ or many KDSS teams - over the years.

She showed remarkable strength after the loss of her beloved “Smitty,” but over time, the weight of grief and loneliness took a heavy toll on her.

A memorial service to honour Cathy’s life will be held Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at 1 p.m., at the Kincardine United Church (721 Princes Street), with Rev. Judy Zarubick officiating.

A celebration of life will occur after the ceremony, at Ainsdale Golf Course, from 2-4 p.m. (2264 Concession 12, Kincardine, Ontario).

If so desired, donations in Cathy’s memory may be made to the KDSS Athletics/Bursary, at www.bwdsb.on.ca/families_community/donations or drop off a cheque at the Davey-Linklater Funeral Home, 757 Princes Street, Kincardine, or at KDSS, 885 River Lane, Kincardine, and please make cheques payable to the Bluewater District School Board, with a note in the memo, "In Memory of Cathy Smith." Donations may also be made to a charity of your choice.

Portrait and memorial on-line at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com.