CATHERINE ANN KRYKEWICH CROSS

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CATHERINE ANN KRYKEWICH CROSS It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear Catherine who died peacefully with her mother at her side on Monday, November 16, 2009 at the Riverview Health Centre. Catherine is survived by her husband, Mike, their son, Alexander, her parents, Vera and Tyrone Cross, her sister, Marie Wellington (Ken), her mother-in-law, Mabel Krykewich, and her brother-in-law Curtis Krykewich (Debbie). Catherine was predeceased by her father-in-law, Walter Krykewich. Catherine was born to Vera and Tyrone Cross on July 4, 1965 in Cornwall, England. Her sister, Marie, was born two years later. In her childhood, Catherine and her family spent many happy hours camping and exploring the sea-side near their home. At 19 years of age, Catherine entered Kingston Teacher Training College in London, England and upon graduating, pursued her passion for teaching. Catherine loved to travel and in 1996 came to Wolseley School in Winnipeg as part of a one-year teacher exchange program. That year she made many friends and fell in love with Mike. After a year-long, long-distance romance, Catherine moved to Winnipeg, where she and Mike were married on May 29, 1999. Their son, Alexander, was born on August 21, 2002. Catherine continued to teach at Princess Margaret, Maple Leaf, and then again at Wolseley. Catherine loved being with people! So many had the honour and privilege of calling her friend. Catherine treasured the company of others - her friends from the Red Tent, the La Leche League, her book club, Augustine Church, the Cancer Support Group, as well as the play group moms, her teaching colleagues, and many other friends, near and far. She was a trusted confidant, kindred spirit, and a go-to person for sensible advice. Loving and loyal, honest and forthright, grounded and inspirational, ever joyful . . . that was our Cath! Catherine's artistry touched every aspect of her life. She loved to explore new ideas in creating her beautiful scrapbooks and collages; she was an avid photographer who always took time to notice and capture the meaningful moments in her life; she loved treasure-hunting at Value Village and wore her prizes with flare and finesse! Catherine was a wise and wonderful teacher. Her compassion, creativity, generosity, insight, and enthusiasm were felt by children, parents, and colleagues alike. Catherine's passion for art, reading, writing, and mathematics shone through in her teaching. She saw great potential in every child and had an incredible ability to listen, respond, provide guidance, and follow their lead. Catherine's influence went beyond the walls of the classroom. Over these past two and a half years, she taught us what it means to face big challenges head-on, to live each moment until you die, and to make our days perfect. Catherine adored her family. Their well-being was her top priority. She and Mike and Alexander enjoyed watching the Goldeyes, walking in Beaudry Park, and travelling to England. Catherine and Addie always had an art project and a good book on the go. Catherine was so proud of the confident, young man that he was growing into. Catherine and Mike cherished each other's company - sharing a beer, a game of cribbage, and some conversation made it a date! Catherine lived her life to the fullest, her only regret being that she would be leaving her boys too soon. Catherine's family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. Maxwell, Dr. Ogarenko, the staff at the Buhler Cancer Center at the Victoria General Hospital, and the palliative care team at the Riverview Health Centre. There will be a Celebration of Life Service and Reception on Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at Augustine United Church, 444 River Avenue, Loraine MacKenzie-Shepherd officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what to hope for. And the most you can do is live inside that hope. - Barbara Kingsolver

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 19, 2009