Kathy McKay (nee Kathy Caruso) died peacefully on May 29, 2014 at the age of 93.
Born in Vancouver to Sicilian immigrants, Kathy moved with her family to Princeton when she was very young and spent her entire life in Princeton, raising her family and contributing to the community. Predeceased by her husband, Ivan McKay and her daughter, Geri, she is survived by seven children; Many-Ann McDougall, Bonnie Cook, Don, Bob, Julie, Michael and Richard McKay; as well as by 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her four brothers; Angelo, Frank, Joe and Phil Caruso.
Kathy completed grade 12 at Princeton High, then married Ivan McKay in 1940. They lived on Allison Flats and started their family, then moved downtown in 1956 to the house that was to remain her home for more than 50 years.
Kathy was a wonderful mother, homemaker and gardener - raising eight children, keeping her busy household clean, feeding a full house with varying appetites, and creating a garden bursting with her favorite flowers. She lived independently at home until she was 89. She was a member of the Legion Auxiliary for many years, contributing her cooking skills and good humor to catering events and building lasting friendships.
Kathy had a special love for music and dance and up until her last days enjoyed singing old-time favorites.
Her life was full of courage, good humor, joy, tragedy and perseverance. She was generous in looking after many people in her town, becoming like a mother to all; she was a devoted friend with regular coffee dates; and she was a welcoming hostess to relatives, friends and travellers until the end. After so many years of looking after others, she spent her final years being cared for by the kind staff at Ridgewood Lodge, as well as by her daughter, friend and caregiver, Bonnie Cook.
“One day at a time,” was her final message... “That’s all you can do, is one day at a time.” She will be missed by her many Princeton friends and by her family.
Kathy McKay will be cremated in Princeton and at her request, her life will be celebrated privately. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her name to Ridgewood Lodge.