Mrs. Catherine "Kay" Bell

Catherine “Kay” Bell (nee Hall) Born September 27, 1932, she left this world as she lived her life – full of conviction, dignity and strength – following a sudden and brief battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family, on February 1, 2018. She has gone to be reunited with the love of her life and husband of 55 years, Clifford Bell, who predeceased her in 2009, but whose spirit she lovingly kept by her side. Left behind to treasure a wealth of memories are daughters Karen (Gary) and Vikki (Doug), grandchildren Lyndsay (Sandro), Ryan (Tamara), Katee, Cole and Maggie, and great-grandchildren Justina, Carter and Finnian. Central to Kay’s life were her dear parents, Gerald and Alexanderina (both predeceased), and her beloved siblings, Geraldine (Stuart) (both predeceased), Olga (Ken) (both predeceased), Gerald (Margaret), Daisy, Doreen (Jack) (both predeceased), and Paddy (predeceased) (Ray); Kay devoted special care to Daisy and Gerald until the end. She is lovingly remembered by sister-in-law Ellen, cousin Charlene (Rod), lifelong friends Sue (John, predeceased, and family) and Tina (Sal, and family), and many, many dear nieces, nephews and their families, whom she cherished beyond measure. Kay always took such pride in maintaining a truly impeccable home, filled with warmth, beauty and a carefully arranged assortment of treasures that she collected over a lifetime. She adored putting things on display, and would tut disapprovingly if you failed to take notice of her latest addition or update. She was a stunning and stylish woman with boundless energy, fierce independence and a sense of play. Her unique eyes were an ever-changing seascape of blue green, full of fire and often mischief, as she loved to shock and provoke others with unexpected comments, followed by a laugh and the twinkle that she also reserved for spats with Cliff. Whether tending her garden, lending her wisdom and support, or taking up a cause, Kay gave all of herself to everything that she did; she was – and will always remain – a deeply loved and admired spirit, a force all her own. She loved her country home in Bethany and the sugar maple on its front lawn that she would tap to make the tiniest bit of syrup. She loved garage sale-ing in the summertime, adventuring about with family by her side, hunting for bargains and treasures galore. She loved the annual Easter Egg Roll, a hilarious family tradition that never failed to bring out her competitive streak. She loved playing Cabbie and sharing stories with her grandchildren. She loved lavishing food on others, and her food was a true gift from the heart: from tomato “sameeches”, deviled eggs and potato salad, to Scottish shortbread at Christmas time, to the most amazing cabbage rolls that she would spend hours assembling just so … Kay's delicious cooking left her family and friends with no doubt as to how deeply they were loved. Feisty to the end, we will miss her pointed sighs and astounding fortitude. The sound of her genuine laughter will echo in our hearts forever, along with the countless other memories of Kay that we hold so dear. Cherished daughter, wife, Mom, Gram, Nannie, Auntie, sister, cousin and friend, she has brought light to the lives of so many. A heartfelt thank you to all who showed care and support during this difficult time. As per Mom’s wishes, there will be no funeral service; a private family gathering will be held to celebrate her life in warmer, brighter weather. In lieu of flowers, please share your fondest memories in the online guestbook, or donations to your favourite charity in Mom’s name. ~ Thank you for everything, Kay – we love you higher than high, wider than wide, and deeper than the deepest sea. ~