KATHERINE VAIR PATERSON It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the untimely passing of a dear sister, sister-in-law, aunt and great-aunt in the person of Katherine Paterson on October 4, 2021. Born on December 19, 1945 in Leamington, Ontario, Kathy was the daughter of Neil and Kaye Paterson, both predeceased, and sister to Dr. Douglas (Margaret) Paterson and Mary Paterson-Wever (Byron). As an accomplished pianist at a young age, she left Leamington to pursue an Honors Degree in Music Education from the University of Toronto. This led to a career in the Toronto Secondary School System as a Department Head in the Music Department of Jarvis Collegiate and subsequently West Toronto Secondary School where she inspired many students with the passion for music. Upon retirement at a young age, Kathy refocused her life in Toronto to several endeavours including Genealogy and Family Heritage, travel (especially with knitting guild acquaintances) and philanthropy. She was a patron of the Textile Museum of Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Stratford Festival and many other endeavours centred about the arts. Kathy made no secret of her love and adoration of nieces Mary Katherine (Katie and husband Dave) and great-nephews Noah and Jack of Ottawa, and Paige (Roop) and great-niece Aanya of San Francisco. Kathy's life was cut far too short by a sudden illness which she endured with grace and courage. She will be sorely missed. For those who wish, a contribution in Kathy's name to any charity supporting the Arts, the Indigenous Communities or the underprivileged would be appreciated. Cremation will take place and a private family inurnment will be held at a later date.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Oct. 9 to Oct. 13, 2021.