After facing a crushing diagnosis, the courageous battle of Kathy Mayer concluded on Monday June 12, 2023 surrounded by her loving family at her Owen Sound home, at age 63. Kathy was, and remained, eternally grateful for the joys and blessings in her life, especially her loving children, Abigail McCuaig (Cameron) and Rachel Jenson (Samuel). Cherished grandmother of Finlay and Wesley McCuaig, and Tessa and Lucy Jenson. Kathy will be fondly remembered by the families “bonus mother” Marlene Kaufman, and by the many friends and social groups she established throughout her life. Missing her terribly are her beloved pets Karma and Ophelia. Predeceased by her parents Cecil and Joyce Mayer (nee Allgeier) and brother Tim.
Born in Waterloo and growing up in Hanover, Kathy dreamed of living in the country and running her own farm, which came true in 1995 when she and Brian and the girls moved to a small farm north of Leith. Never afraid of hard work, and in fact happiest with bare feet, dirt under her nails and music cranked up, she brought an old apple orchard back to life, taking pride in teaching her daughters and bringing them into the little business. The girls have fond memories of picking, bagging and then selling apples at the Owen Sound market as children. Kathy later began making apple roses and other crafts and going to markets and craft sales throughout Grey-Bruce for many years. She loved being a part of the community, and some of her closest friends have been made through the markets, small businesses she worked with, and her activism. Kathy gave much of herself and causes dear to her heart include: AIDS awareness and poverty in Africa, environmental protection, addiction and mental health. She cared about people and it wasn't unusual to find a friend or two, both long time friends and new connections, sitting on her front porch with a cup of tea or cold lemonade. Kathy remained a life long spiritual learner, embracing and accepting several ways of guidance and knowledge.
Kathy loved children, obvious to anyone who has witnessed her playing with her grandchildren. A hands-on grandmother, who despite the distance would drop everything to help when needed. In quieter times, she loved to travel and learn about different cultures. Favourite family memories include lazy summer afternoons at the lake, going for ice cream at Big Bay, greenhouses in spring, weeding and going to see dozens of theatre performances in Toronto and Stratford. Kathy bravely lived her life on her own terms and made hard decisions and put the work in to always be the best version of herself.
Cremation has taken place, and arrangements have been entrusted to the Garafraxa Hill Funeral Home, Chatsworth. If desired, donations to the Casey House, Toronto, or the Stephen Lewis Foundation, would be appreciated by the family. Condolences may be expressed online at www.garafraxahillfuneral.com
