Obituary for Catherine Copp
1954-2023
With broken hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Catherine on January 16, 2023 with her husband, David McBride and her sister, Leslie (Chris van Dop), by her side. Predeceased by her parents David and Mary Copp, she is also survived by brother Andy (Irene) of North Carolina. Dear to her heart were her niece and nephews, Emily and Peter van Dop and Jon (Lauren) and Alex (Krista) Copp.
Catherine was fearless in addressing her cancer recurrence in mid 2022, a true Warrior Princess, and appreciated the care given by Dr. Molckovsky and others at the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre.
Graduating with an M.A. from U. of T. in Library Sciences and a B.A. from Trent, Catherine worked for many years as a career consultant for KPMG and then Knightsbridge, retiring in 2015 as the Regional Manager for Southwestern Ontario.
Catherine and David married in 2009 after many years of courtship. It truly was “happily ever after”. They shared a diverse and eclectic group of friends who have been incredibly loyal and supportive during this difficult time. They travelled to interesting and exotic parts of the world and took regular trips to Catherine’s “favourite place”, the family cottage on Georgian Bay. Catherine hosted David’s annual 40th birthday canoe party for decades, keeping a wonderful tradition alive.
Catherine had a love of music, the arts and literature. She spent many years as Chair of the board of directors of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and provided critical leadership during the transition to a new CEO. Catherine and David established an endowment fund to recognize Catherine’s long-time passion for the Symphony (see below.)
Catherine's family will receive relatives and friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467. Memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at St. John the Evangelist Church, 36 Henderson Street, Elora. Reception to follow at the Elora Mill.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to the KW Symphony - Copp/McBride Family and Friends Endowment Fund would be appreciated by the family (cards available at the funeral home).