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In loving memory of Catherine “Cathy” Julie Vergunst (nee Paquette) 44 years.

For those of us who love her, we are unimaginably heartbroken. Our Cathy passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Tuesday, July 21st, 2020 at the Maison McCulloch Hospice. It feels unbearably painful and unfair to have to say goodbye.

She was the loving and devoted wife of 20 years and best friend of Derek Vergunst. Derek and Cathy met at Cambrian College in 1995 when she was in the Geology Program. She had a quiet demeanor, and though shy at first, it didn’t take long for her to learn to speak her mind. Derek gave Cathy the travel bug on their first trip in 1997 to the East Coast of Canada, from there, over the years they continued to travel in to Caribbean to Costa Rica, Cuba and Mexico. They also travelled across the country many times to visit family in Spokane, Washington and Red Deer, Alberta. She loved to travel, her and Derek would pick a place and from there they would fly by the seat of their pants, stopping wherever along the way, with nothing holding them back from staying and exploring something interesting, they found. While travelling, Cathy loved to branch out and try different food and drinks. When she learned of a good recipe, she couldn’t wait to try it for her family and friends when she got home. Derek and Cathy started their family with a golden retriever named Whisky.

In 2003 they welcomed their daughter Isabelle Angeline and their son Tomas John in 2006. She loved and lived for her children. For her, a loving family was the end goal, not things or money. Her attention to detail to provide her family with camping and Christmas experiences demonstrated by her love. Catherine was the keeper of family gatherings; she ruled the kitchen with authority. Derek kept her wine glass full and kept out of her way while she enjoyed making Christmas dinners for her parents and in-laws. She loved a good drink with friends especially homemade Margaritas. She enjoyed swimming, campfires, travelling and gatherings with family and friends. She was the first to laugh and remind you to 'relax'. After staying home while the kids were young, Cathy started as a personal assistance with Investors Group in 2008. During her 12 years there, she was respected almost like a mother to the consultants she worked for. She was organized, always getting the paperwork right, and keeping the consultants on track.

She is the beloved daughter of Norm & Denise Paquette (nee Lahaie) and daughter-in-law of John & Barb Vergunst (nee Stewart). Cherished sister of Francine Mihalasky (Mark) and sister-in-law of Jason Vergunst, Mark Vergunst (Tami Li), Rebecca Henderson (Blaine) and Ian Vergunst (Stephanie). Ian stayed with Cathy and Derek often and Cathy loved him like the little brother she never had. She will be sadly missed by her many aunts and uncles, cousins and nieces and nephews; Michael, Matthew, David, Balin, Durin, Orin, Kalin, Alexandria, Norah and Oscar as well as her many dear friends and relatives and the staff at Investors Group.

From the bottom of our hearts we would like to thank the amazing, caring and compassionate staff at the Maison McCulloch Hospice, especially Melanie and Julie, for taking such good care of Cathy and her family in her final days.

At this time there will be no visitation or service. A celebration of her life will be planned for a later date. For those wishing to make a donation in her memory, donations to the Maison McCulloch Hospice would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to the Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home.  If you can this week, we hope you have a bonfire and raise a glass to Cathy.

“Cathy, thank you for your devotion to your family. You were the best mom. We love you.”

– Your loving family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service Details

Provided by: Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home



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