Katherine Elizabeth Symington (nee Cope)
1948 – 2026
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Katherine at Cambridge Memorial Hospital on Tuesday June 30th at the age of 78 years.
Born in Clinton and raised in St. Williams, Ontario, Kathy had the privilege of growing up on her grandfather’s farm where she created so many special memories with her sister Karen, and mother Grace. She would spend the rest of her life recounting all her happy times there, playing in orchards, riding horses at the neighboring farm, collecting eggs and playing with baby chicks…developing a healthy respect for turkeys.
Kathy spent her teen years in Ridgetown where she attended high school. Upon graduation, she moved to Windsor where she attended teacher’s college and later pursued a fine arts degree at the University of Windsor. It was during her time in Windsor where she met her husband Wayne through friends. The two were married a few years later in November of 1976 and soon settled in Hamilton, ON, where she devoted her life to her family. Kathy loved children and spent time as a teacher, however her family was always her focus. She was the best mother and devoted partner.
Kathy and her husband Wayne Symington were married for over 49 years. She raised her family in Hamilton and Cambridge. Beloved mother of Sarah (Drew) and predeceased by her cherished son Jeffrey. She shared her creative and fun-loving spirit with everyone who came to her home. She was an excellent friend to those lucky enough to be acquainted with her. Kathy had a passion for the arts. She loved music, painting, drawing, theatre, sewing, and many other pursuits. She used her talents to create beautiful cross-stitched pieces for miniature dollhouses as part of a hobby she enjoyed. She was an avid gardener her entire life and made every home she lived at more beautiful with her gardens. She loved animals and had many pets over the course of her life. She loved reading and would always have a book nearby, and later her tablet with reading app.
Kathy loved camping. She often recounted happy vacations spent as a child with her cousins, aunts and uncles camping around northern Ontario. Later on, she spent many happy vacations on the shores of Lake Huron at the Pinery. She loved the sound of the waves and wind at the lake and the many beautiful sunsets.
She will be deeply missed by her family; grandchildren, Logan, Andrew, and Isla, treasured sister Karen (David), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She enriched all our lives and we are eternally grateful for her, her loving spirit and presence in our lives.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Association, Kidney Foundation of Canada, or Diabetes Canada, as expressions of sympathy.
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