MacNIVEN, Catherine Janet

MacNIVEN, Catherine Janet - August 4, 1958 - June 30, 2012 - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Cathy MacNiven after a brief illness. She is survived by her husband Stephen, children; Stephanie, Kirsten and Taylor of Toronto. She leaves her parents Doug and Joyce MacNiven of Kitchener, Ontario, sister Lynda, brothers Doug, David (Yvonne), Rob and brother in-law Michael (Connie). Cathy also leaves her much-loved nieces and nephew Shannon, Courtney Alexandra and Scott. Cathy was born in Rouyn-Noranda, grew up in Sudbury and settled in Toronto. She deeply touched many lives personally and professionally with her wit, kindness, generosity and her wonderfully disarming personality. Cathy loved social gatherings with family and friends as a host or guest, planned or spontaneous. She had a particular love of Ontario's north and in her childhood spent many wonderful summer holidays with her family on Georgian Bay. She created new memories at her own family cottage near Parry Sound where she enjoyed deeply cherished moments with friends and family. Her embrace of family traditions, outlook and passion for life was inspirational to so many she knew. She would always say that we cannot control what life throws at us, but we can control how we deal with it. She exemplified that philosophy every moment of her life. Cathy will be deeply missed, and always loved. A private family service has been held. Family and friends are invited to join us for a celebration of her life on Thursday July 12, 2012 11:00 am at Donalda Club, 12 Bushbury Dr., Toronto. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer society would be greatly appreciated