Our beloved mother and grandmother passed away on September 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and grace.

She was the beloved wife of the late Basil Bethune. For 58 years, Catherine and Basil built a strong family foundation rooted in love, resilience, and unwavering values.

Together, they raised four children, who find comfort in knowing that their parents are now reunited. Catherine was a source of strength and inspiration to Brian (Pam), Dean (TracyAnn), Karen (John Lishman), and Dale (Laurie). She will be lovingly remembered by her adoring grandchildren Sarah, Meg, Matt, Ben, Braedan, Allison, Addie, Jack, Owen, and James, and their partners.

Cathy was predeceased by her parents, James and Myrtle Hanley; her siblings Tom (Vivian), Robert, Dorothy Bethune (Fergus), Frank (Lorraine), and Monica Edwards. She will be lovingly remembered by her three remaining siblings, Gerald (Lynn), Mary, and Judith Alexander (Dan); as well as her sister-in-law Arlene Hanley and her brother-in-law Rod Edwards. She will also be missed by her many nieces and nephews.

Basil and Cathy welcomed friends and family into their home with open arms and open hearts. Their home at Eight Superior Crescent and their place on Lake Nosbonsing provided the setting for countless celebrations, stories, laughter, and moments of togetherness.

Cathy lived her life by example. She inspired the people around her to be better simply by being herself and doing what was right. She often advocated for those whose voices had gone unheard, championing their causes with remarkable compassion. She was known for her kindness and empathy toward others. Generous with her time and wisdom, Cathy was a trailblazer who was always ready to lend a helping hand, offering support, guidance, and encouragement to family, friends, and those in her community.

For many years, Cathy worked at Canadore College, teaching students in the Office Administration program. She found great joy in empowering her students, helping them realize their potential, achieve their goals, and embark on successful careers.

Her commitment to personal growth was demonstrated by earning both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree while working full-time and raising a family. While these were great accomplishments, Cathy’s greatest achievements were raising her children and watching her grandchildren grow into amazing young adults.

Cathy loved the dogs she and Basil had throughout the years. She shared an exceptional bond with her little RD, who brought her great comfort and companionship following Basil’s passing.

Cathy will be fondly remembered for her beautiful smile, her kindness, and the light she brought into the world through her compassion and grace.

Cathy’s children ask that you honour her memory by performing an unexpected act of kindness for someone in your community.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Terry Rotondo, as well as the staff at Northern Heights Care Community, for the care given to their mother. The family is also grateful to Father Larry Rymes for being with Cathy and administering her last rites during her final hours. They extend their heartfelt thanks to Cathy’s three remaining siblings for their outpouring of love, comfort, and support as she embarked on her journey to reunite with Basil. A special thank you is given to Catherine’s dear friend, Sheryl Seguin, with whom she shared countless laughs and happy moments.

In accordance with Cathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A burial service and celebration of Cathy’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation would be greatly appreciated.