April 15, 1949 – July 9, 2024

Cathy died peacefully at the Madawaska Valley Hospice, surrounded by and with the love of her family on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 75 years of age.

Cathy was the daughter of the late John Dombroskie and Margaret Murack, and grew up on a farm outside Barry’s Bay, Ontario. She trained as a nurse at St. Michael’s College in Toronto, beginning a career that she loved that lasted over four decades. Cathy was a cherished partner to Larry for the last 52 years; a beloved mother to Geris, Jamie (Hannah), Jade (Kris), and Jessica; and a precious Nana to Mikaela and Blake. She is survived by her family; her sisters, Rita and Florence; her brothers, Stanley (Glynis), Bronis, and Benny (Brenda); along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Cathy was predeceased by her parents, John and Margaret; her sister, Rose Marie; her brothers-in-law, Desmond Kuiack (late husband of Rose Marie), Ron Coulas (late husband of Rita), and David Afelskie (late husband of Florence).

Cathy was a dedicated and devoted nurse for over 40 years, and she loved her nursing career only second to her family. She was the nurse every patient hoped to have. Cathy was hard-working, well respected by her colleagues, and a calm and caring presence. The majority of her nursing career was at St. Francis Memorial Hospital, followed by several years in the office of Dr. Joe Cybulski as his “second in command.” During her time as a nurse, Cathy touched the lives of every patient and colleague she encountered, as evidenced by the many stories and memories shared with the family over the last few months. Following her retirement, she began volunteering at Madawaska Valley Hospice, which gave her the opportunity to continue her lifelong calling of providing patient care and mentorship to those she worked with.

Cathy always found joy in the simple pleasures of life: long walks in nature with her husband Larry or with her sisters Rita and Florence at the farm; singing in the choir and tending to the flowers at St. Lawrence O’Toole’s Parish; enjoying girls’ nights with her close friends; and spending time with her daughters (often laughing to episodes of the Golden Girls while enjoying a drink). Cathy was intelligent, loving, and had a sense of humour like no other – her dry, sarcastic comments (usually punctuated with an eye roll) kept us all laughing up to her final days.

The family would like to thank Dr. Steven Chen for his compassionate care to Mom, along with Dylaina Wood, Jenna, Sam, Jenny, Kathy, Angie, John, and all of the other PSWs, nursing staff, and volunteers at hospice for keeping Mom so comfortable and well cared for during her short stay. Mom’s nursing friends (Maureen, Sharon, Lee, Jane, Drenda, Lisa) made sure their “rounds” included regular visits to check on her, which brought her great happiness. Mom spent her life caring for others, and we were all honoured to care for her in her time of need. We would also like to thank Fr. John Burchat, Fr. Jerry Gauvreau, Fr. Pawel Ratajczak, and Deacon Bob Probert, who provided pastoral care and prayers at Mom’s bedside. In addition, the family cannot express their overwhelming appreciation for all of the prayers, messages, food deliveries, and cherished memories that were shared with us. Mom was loved immeasurably, and that was made especially clear to us over the last few weeks.

In Cathy’s memory, please enjoy a long walk in nature, your favourite meal, time with your family and friends, a cold beer or good glass of wine, and always a laugh. Mom always reminded us to live in the moment, to choose our battles, and to never take life too seriously. We will cherish her wise advice and guidance forever.

Should you wish to make a donation in her honour, in lieu of flowers she requested donations to Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care. Condolences may be made through the website at www.heubnerfuneralhome.ca