It is with deep sadness and the heaviest of hearts we share the passing of Kathy Woodburn on Friday, May 31, 2024. Kathy passed away so peacefully with her daughter Brenda by her side, holding her hand tight – after a very short illness at LHSC-Victoria Hospital at the age of 80. Devoted and loving mother of Brenda (William “Bean”) Hawkins, proud, loving, & doting Grammie of Charlotte, and adored Grandma of “Hazel” her Grand-puppy-dog. Cherished step-mom of Karen (Royden) Moon from Ardmore, Alberta. Dear step-grandma of Elizabeth Moon (Tarin Hempel), Alexandra Martynuik (Malcolm) and step-great grandma of Winston, Ezra & Harrison Martnynuik, step-grandma of Rebecca Moon (Tye Debrule), and Zackery Moon all from Bonnyville and Edmonton, Alberta. Forever missed by her brother – Thomas Ryan and sister – Alice Hodgins both from Lucan. Lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law all on the Woodburn side. Predeceased by her parents Guy and Annie “Maybelle” Ryan, husband Harold Woodburn (2008) and brother-in-law Gerald Hodgins (2004).
Kathy was born in the yellow brick house at the home farm on Saintsbury Line on March 8, 1944. She was raised a true country- farm girl who was so hard working from her youth to adolescent to adult to senior. In fact, up until a few days ago she was out puttering and weeding her many beautiful flower gardens and cutting her infamous grass (which looked and felt like a golf course). She married the love of her life, Harold Woodburn on August 10, 1973 – he swept her off her feet and they danced their way through their many years together, celebrating 35 years of marriage before his passing.
Kathy was an accomplished and professional Accountant for over 48 years. She began her career at Alma Paint in London when she was 18 years old spending 16 years working and then after having her daughter and then returning to work at Sparton of Canada where she retired at the age of 65 with 32 years tenure.
She was incredibly selfless and was always taking care of everyone, proudly watching over all the Clandeboye kids who notably referred to her as a “second mom”. She helped raise and shape these kids into their adulthood – she loved Melissa Rinn, Derek Holden, Bradley Holden, Greg Cunningham, Jeff Cunningham, Neel Misra, Ruby Sequin, & Raj Misra and treated them like her own. Kathy was a special ‘bonus grandma’ to so many of Brenda and Charlotte’s friends and she held a special place in the hearts of them all. She will be deeply missed by her best friend in the whole world – Marjorie Perrow of London who she met while working at Sparton and instantaneously connected.
Among the many cherished moments in Kathy’s life was her infamous road trip with Brenda, Charlotte and friend Janessa Beatson – summer of 2023. She was the co-pilot with old school road atlas and a magnifying glass along the 10-day trip out to her farm in Willow City, North Dakota. She hadn’t seen her farm in over 60+ years, holding the winter wheat with that beautiful smile will always be a memory for us all. Kathy loved her small, close-knit family. She adored both of her daughters and they meant the world to her. She is leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories, kindness, and warmth. Known for her beautiful smile and kind heart she was a pillar to the community and to all that knew her. Among her greatest joys were the times spent with Charlotte, Hazel, Bean, Brenda, and Tom – the bond they all shared was unmeasurable. She was a simple woman who compassionately gave so much and never, ever wanted in return. The most selfless human in this world, to know her was to adore and love her. She passed away on Brenda and Charlotte’s birthday – May 31st and the full-circle of this occurrence leaves one believing in miracles and gifts from above. May her compassionate soul continue to live on in the hearts of all her family and friends who knew her.
Visitation will be held at the Haskett Funeral Home, 456 Main Street South, EXETER on Friday, June 7th from 2-4 pm and 6-9 pm, where Kathy’s funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 8th at 11 AM with Rev. Wendy Mencel officiating. Interment St. James Cemetery, Clandeboye. Reception to follow at the Lucan Community Memorial Centre.
Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh
In Kathy’s honour, donations to the Humane Society London & Middlesex would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Brad & Sheila Hodgins
Brenda, Bean and Charlotte.. we were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your mom and grandma. It’s very difficult losing a parent as we know. She was so very lucky to have had you all so close to her and made so many memories with her for all these years… especially the trip to the farm last summer! What a great memory for all of you. Thinking of you all and sending love.
Brad, Sheila, Trent & Hailey Hodgins
Judy Bond
My sincere condolences go out to all of Kathy’s family. I rode to work with her for a number of years and will never forget how we had to fill the truck up with fresh eggs on a weekly basis for to deliver them to her work pals. We always laughed how the yokes would be on us if we ever got rear ended. RIP Kathy
Judy Bond
Amy Hardy
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte and Tommy
I send my deepest sympathy to you on your loss. Kathy was a very special lady, so warm, caring and welcoming. I have alot of very fond memories of spending time at your parents place and Sunday dinners. She will be greatly missed and always loved.
Sending hugs and love.
Janet, Jason, Janessa, Jillian & Jaclyn Beatson
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte & Tom,
Sending our deepest condolences.
Kathy was kind, caring, and loved you all so much. The memories that you have made throughout the years with her will be cherished for the days, weeks and years to come.
Janessa is ever so grateful for the time spent travelling with you all last summer. When we met up with you all in South Dakota, Kathy had the biggest smile.
Brenda, I knew right then that you made the right decision to take your mom to see her farm in North Dakota.
Kathy, may you go rest in peace love Janette or the girl on Hwy 7 with the three blonds.
Sending our love to you all
Janet, Jason, Janessa, Jillian & Jaclyn Beatson.
Su & Anne Li
Dear Brenda, Bean and Charlotte,
I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your dear mom and grandma, Kathy. Kathy was such a sweet and kind lady who touched the hearts of all who knew her. Her warmth and gentleness will be dearly missed. Our hearts and prayers are with you in this incredibly difficult time.
God bless,
Rita de Groot
Dear Brenda Bean and Charlotte,
During this difficult time, I want to offer my deepest condolences. May the cherished memories you hold bring you comfort today and always. Your mom lives on through your spirit, and her legacy shines through you. She was a proud mom and grandma, and her love will always live on.
Pete & Pat Van Geleuken
Pete & I extend our deepest condolences to your family on your loss of this beautiful lady. Brenda, we hope you can hold in your heart the special memories & joy you & Bean & Charlotte gave her in her life. You were a wonderful daughter & we know she treasured you dearly. May she rest in the sweetest peace.
Kim Gelz & Family
Brenda
I loved the relationship you had with your Mom. She was so involved with your family. You have so many wonderful memories that I hope bring you and your family comfort and heartwarming smiles.
Glenna Courneya
Brenda and family,
Sincere condolences on your loss. I have such fond memories of your Mom…she was soft-spoken, kind, caring, and hard-working. The obituary captures her beautifully, and that picture with the wheat is so Kathy – reaching out with that lovely warm smile. May your treasured memories comfort you now. Much love and hugs, oxox
Jolene & Keith Thomas
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte, and Tommy,
The passing of Kathy deeply saddens us. She was an extraordinary lady who touched the lives of many with her kindness and warmth. We have great memories of your mom with her awesome Sunday dinners and she was always welcoming to anyone who wanted to join. We will miss dropping in to see Kathy and listening to the many stories she would tell. Brenda – the mother-daughter relationship you and your mom had was one of the most beautiful relationships we have ever seen. The experiences and outings you had with her I am sure will be cherished forever. Charlotte – your grandma just adored you, and we know that you will always carry a piece of her with you always and she will be looking down on you every day. Bean – I know the day you married Brenda was one of the happiest days for Kathy to see her daughter marry the man of her dreams and she loved you like a son. I am sure Hap was there to greet her and they are dancing away to Alan Jackson as we speak. Rest in the sweetest peace Kathy ❤️
Dan and Carol Sloetjes
Brenda and family
Our condolences to all. Lots of memories growing up in Clandeboye will never be forgotten. Cherish them all.
Peace, Grace and Love surround you all at this very difficult time. It very hard with the loss of parents who are like our Best Friends too.
Prayers surround you all.
Carol Cunningham Sloetjes
Betty Lippert
Brenda,,so sorry we never met But knew your mom so well,please know my thoughts are with you and hope someday we will meet,,,Just remember the good times and I see there were so many,,
Jennifer Thomson
Brenda, Bean and Charlotte and Uncle Tom,
My heart is with you all, such a loss. You all were each others world, and that spot being empty will forever hurt. Time will change that, and as you move forward your memories will comfort and make you smile.
These pictures are absolute treasures. As I watched the slideshow I could hear your Dad’s awesome giggle, then I heard your Mom saying “Oh Harold” and all of this with Allan Jackson in the background. So many great times at that little house in Clandeboye.
Sending so much love to you all, and to the heavens where I’m sure they’ve now shared many a dance.
Love you
Jen Thomson & Cassie Dayman
XOXOXOX
Ray & Sue Heffernan
Brenda, Bean & Charlotte,
Our Deepest Sympathy on your loss of your Mom & Grammie, looking at all the pictures, she had a great life, she couldn’t ask for more , she had her family around her which was her whole life, she has a beautiful kind &caring daughter who married a great guy, her Dad would have approved. Then came along Charlotte who was defintely the apple of her eye, not missing any event in her life, teaching her along the way cooking, gardening and life skills. Kathy will be greatly missed by all, May your wonderful memories help you through this very difficult time. She will now be reunited with “Hap” the love of her life, who’s been waiting for her.
Judy Ratcliffe
My prayers for the family. Auntie holding uncle again and I can only imagine them dancing together once again. A beautiful angel recieved her wings. She will always be walking with us all. Love always your niece
Jeanette Simpson
Thinking about you and your family at this very difficult time. Brenda you and your family will always have the memories of your Mother and all the good things you shared with her. Beautiful pictures!
Linda Maslen
Brenda,Bean and Charlotte. I am so sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing. I knew Kathy and Harold from way back in the day.You have my deepest condolences.
Allan, Heather & Aden Cunningham
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte & family
Sending our condolences to you and the family during this tough time. I loved sitting with your mom at the pool and talking about how she was so proud of you and what you have accomplished. Just know that she was very proud to have you as a daughter.
George and Janice Dauncey
Tom, Brenda, William and Charlotte
We were shocked with the news of Kathy’s passing. We have many fond memories of both your Mom and Dad. Please know you are all in our thoughts as you navigate this life without your sister, Mom and Grandma. You are all in our thoughts today and always
George and Janice Dauncey
Evelyne Rollings
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte, and Tom,
Our deepest sympathy, to all of you at this very sad time.
I have many great memories of your mother ,grandmother, sister.
Kathy and Harold were great neighbours. Always enjoyed having a coffee and chat with them. Especially enjoyed the birthday party you held for her last year.
Keep the wonderful memories in your heart.
Hugs
Evelyne , and family.
Bonnie Manders
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte, Tom, Alice and Kathleen’s extended family. Please accept my Sincere Sympathy as you grieve the loss of a kind and caring woman. She will be missed by many.
Bev. Anderson
Brenda, Bean, Charlotte and family
We extend our deepest sympathies to you all . Kathy’s legacy of love , kindness and wisdom will continue to inspire us all who were blessed to know her. She will be missed.
Scott /Bev Anderson
Don Lankin
Kathy’s Family Tom Alice & Edward
Sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing my sincere condolence.
Ross & Anne Holden
Brenda, William, Charlotte and Tommy,
We are thinking of you at this time, and send our condolences to all of you.
Kathy was a friendly and kind person and we know she will be missed by many.
Sara, Bruce & Jacob Mills
Dear Brenda, Bean, Charlotte and Tommy,
We send our deepest sympathies to you on the loss of your Mom, Grammie and sister.
I have so many precious memories of my Mom#2, from her and Hap camping down here, the countless Sunday suppers, sleepovers, swimming in the pool, always the most welcoming place for everyone. The euchre we played on numerous occasions, and Oh my, her banana cake, my favorite and when asked if she would make it for my birthday she didn’t even think twice. I also recall an evening where us girls may not have told the truth where we were going and didn’t the car go and break down, Mom came to get us and she wasn’t even mad. She was an absolutely beautiful person and she will forever be missed.
Charlotte,
I was around your age when I lost my Nana, so I understand exactly how you are feeling. It is very difficult and such a deep loss. She will always be proud of you. She will be your Guardian Angel forever. Grammie loved you very much.
Cherish all of your memories and may you find peace and comfort in the days to come.
Debby T Timmermans
Brenda, Bean and Charlotte, we are so sorry to hear about Kathy’s passing. She was a very special and kind lady, and held such a dear spot in so many hearts. Always loved running into her and seeing her big, bright smile. You are in our thoughts.
Deb, Bert and Peyton Timmermans
Dana & Jeff lariviere
Our deepest condolences on the loss of your mother to you Brenda and your entire family.
We surround you with love and support.
Don and Diane Williams
Brenda Bean and Charlotte We are so sorry for the loss of your cherished mother and grandmother. She will always hold a special place in your hearts. Our condolences to you and your entire family
Bruce Dawson & Kat Busby
Kathy was a great and kind neighbour for the over 20 years since we moved in beside her. She was always up for a chat. We’ll miss her dearly. Our condolences to her family.
Jen Hardy
Sincere condolences Brenda. ♥️
Thinking of you and your family.
Brenda and Fred Smith
Brenda Bean charlotte
So sorry for your loss, Kathy was a sweet woman so kind to all the Clandeboye kids
Always keep the good times close to your heart. Hugs
Bob and Pat Hodgins
Sincere condolences at this difficult time to all of Kathleen’s family.
Nancy Bieber
I am so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. She was such an awesome lady. You have so many beautiful memories to help you get through this very difficult time. My sincere condolences to you all
Joanne Walzack
Brenda and family
So sorry to hear of Cathy’s passing she was your person.
Francisco & Bea
Dear Brenda and Family,
Our hearts go out to you during this incredibly difficult time. Please accept our most sincere condolences. While we understand that it’s not easy, we encourage you to find comfort in the cherished memories and beautiful moments you shared with her. Sending warm hugs your way.
Violet
Brenda
Nothing I can say will take away the pain you’re experiencing. Please know that I share in your sadness.
Remember that a mother’s love is beyond any world and always will be with you. She looks at you now from the stars and her warm heart is still your guiding light.
Carey and Steve
Brenda, Will and Charlotte,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Kathy Hayter
My sincere condolences in the passing of Kathy..you are all in my thoughts and prayers..keep all your fun loving memories close to your heart
Monica Maharaj
Brenda,Bean and Charolette
I am so sorry to hear of your mother/grandmothers passing. I know how close you were to her. Let your faith, family and friends help you through the days and months ahead. My sincere condolences to you and your family at this very difficult time. ❤️
Harry Hardy
Our sincere sympathy,
Our thoughts are with your family
Tiffany
She was a lovely woman! Always up for a good chat while waiting to pick up Charlotte at school. She loved her family without a doubt. She will be missed.
Wayne Carroll
I went to.high school with Kathleen. Wonderful Lady.
Wayne And Cheryl
Joan & Bob Finkbeiner
Brenda ,Bean & Charlotte Our thoughts and Prayers are with you at this sad time . Mom was an amazing woman with smiles and always talked to everyone very concerned about what was going on in your family. Big Hugs God Bless
Carol Nicholson
Sending my sincere thoughts of sympathy to Tom and other family members. Kathleen as Niles and I knew her, commuted to London with us in the 1960’s when she worked at Alma Paint. We ploughed Saintsbury Line before the plow did on many a winter morning. Great memories of a very generous lady. Comfort and peace to all who loved her and were blessed by her in your life.
Carol Nicholson, Port Alice, BC
Jamie Harris
Still in shock for all of you
Brenda, Bean and Charlotte
Sending our love and condolences to all of you at this very difficult time, hold on to those precious memories together 🩷
Jamie and Ryan Harris
Tammy Holden
Brenda, Will and Charlotte
You are in our thoughts during this difficult time. Kathy was the most wonderful, kind hearted loving women. She will be missed dearly. I will always hear “ Oh Harold!” when I think of Kathy:)
Love you!
Tammy and Roscoe
George and Sue Wilson
Brenda, Bean and Charlotte, extended family, heartfelt condolences on your Mother, Grandmother’s passing. Kathy was very friendly and kind. She will always be part of your heart. Cherish your precious memories. May your faith, family and friends ease your sadness in the next few months. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs Brenda.
Norm and Jacquie Kenny
We are very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with the entire family during this very sad time in your lives