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KATHLEEN LOUISE SMITH (JOHNSTON) (KATIE) (KAY)
Born: Oct 31, 1926
Date of Passing: Nov 10, 2021
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KATHLEEN LOUISE SMITH
(JOHNSTON)
October 31, 1926 – November 10, 2021
She was predeceased by her husband Wm. Stewart Johnston in 1980. Katie is survived by sons, Paul (Bonnie) and Bob (Stephanie), and daughter Nancy (Girard), their families, granddaughters, Morgan Murray (Angus) and Lauren Van Berkel, grandsons, Ryan (Melissa) and Stuart Van Berkel (Addy), great-grandson Levon Van Berkel, and sister Marguerite and her family.
Mum graduated from Kelvin High School in 1943 and later from the Winnipeg School of Art. She pioneered the idea of the 'working mom', working as a freelance commercial artist, while raising her family throughout the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s and also made time to volunteer for numerous causes and charities.
In 1980, Mum moved to Victoria, BC and was re-married to Cmdr. RNG (Bud) Smith, RCN (Retired). During their time together until Bud's passing, they travelled the world, often with Rotary International work to do. Back at home in BC, she was First Mate on Bud's trawler 'Grand Idea' as they sailed the Salish Sea.
As much as Katie loved travelling, adventure, and her life in Victoria, her favourite place was Victoria Beach, Manitoba, where she grew up, summered and weekended for nearly 80 years. It was her place of peace and tranquility, her base.
We will miss you Mum, but we'll celebrate your life as you would wish us to. Sleep well. You've earned your place in heaven.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 20, 2021
Condolences & Memories (1 entries)
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As I read this tribute to Kay, many memories flooded back. We were neighbours of the Porters, they on Oxford, the Macnaughtans on Cambridge. My Mom and I stayed in the Porter cottage during the 1950 flood. I was named Kathleen, as my parents thought the world of Kay! Later in my life I was privileged to golf with Kay at Victoria Beach. What a thrill for our paths to cross once again! My condolences to all her family. She was a special lady! - Posted by: Kathy McKibbin (Friend) on: Dec 20, 2021