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SUMMERSKILL, Kathryn: Born July 4, 1947, Wellington, New Zealand – April 26, 2012. Surrounded by her loving family, Kathryn passed away peacefully at St. John’s hospital in Vanderhoof, after a courageous battle with cancer. She is survived by her beloved husband of 40 years - Donald, children: Bridget (Peter), Morgan, Mark (Aimee) and Matthew (Seth). Siblings Mary, Frances (Neil), and Tony (Wendy) (of New Zealand). Kathryn Hepburn, a teacher from Palmerston North New Zealand, arrived in Pemberton, BC, in 1969 as a Home Economics teacher where she also met and married her husband Don. They moved to Willowvale (Fort Fraser) in 1980 where they bought a farm, raised four children, and farmed sheep and cattle for many years. Kathryn also began teaching at St. Joseph’s School in Vanderhoof, where she soon inspired and mentored many new young teachers. When the school closed in 2008, Kathryn was the longest serving member on staff with 23 years of commitment to the school and is fondly remembered and admired by many. She had a zest for life, and was a warm, talented, fun loving, and compassionate person. She was deeply committed to teaching/education, loved the arts, agriculture, and her beloved New Zealand. A funeral mass was held Tuesday, May 1 at 10:30 a.m.@ St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Vanderhoof with Father Doug Jeffery, Father Vincent James, & Father Andy Takach concelebrating. Burial was in Vanderhoof Municipal Cemetery. In loving memory of Kathryn, donations to St. John’s Hospital, Vanderhoof (Palliative Care) are appreciated.



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