It is with broken hearts that the family announces the passing of Kathy (Petersen) Spence, with her family by her side, at the West Parry Sound Health Centre, on Thursday, January 12, 2023. Age 65 years. Beloved wife of Robert Spence. Dear step-mother of Sean Spence (Lori), and Stewart Spence (Missy). Cherished Grandma of Nathan, Kyle, Ethan, Donovan, Collin, Stella, and Scarlett. Loving daughter of Marion Petersen. Dear sister of Audrey (Tony) and David; nephews Ben and Nik. Sister-in-law of Cheryl (Bob), Allan (Anita), Todd (Donna), and John. Forever missed by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and many friends. Kathy was born in 1957 in Dalhousie N.B. to Marion (Colwell) Petersen and the late Ken Petersen. Starting in Blacklands, then Dalhousie, N.B., Kathy packed so much activity into her life. High School was full of volleyball, skiing, basketball, figure skating, and life guarding, together with many who became lifelong friends. Kathy was born to be an educator. Her favourite toy was her chalkboard - teaching her older sister and younger brother their letters and numbers. She continued in Fredericton where she received a Bachelor of Education from Saint Thomas University. She then took summer courses to complete her Master's in Education from UNB. Her teaching career started in Spanish Harlem, NYC, and then took her to Brampton Ontario, teaching in several Peel Board schools, progressing from teacher to vice principal through to principal. She retired in December 2020 from the Near North District School Board after a 34-year career where she loved her job and mentoring many younger educators looking to move forward in their career paths. It was in Brampton that she met her soul mate Rob. Together they built a beautiful, busy life, that began with a dream honeymoon in Hawaii. This was followed with 25 years of travelling every chance that came up, boating, fishing, camping, and teaching her nephews how to ski. She made many trips back East to spend time in Dalhousie and to the cottage by the beautiful Bay of Chaleur. Eventually they built a beautiful retirement home, 'Trail's End', in McKellar, Ontario. Retirement did not mean slowing down. She volunteered at the hospital, the Lions Club, participated in a 5K Run for the Cure, and joined a group organizing a 150th birthday party for her new home community. Arrangements entrusted to the Logan Funeral Home, 81 James Street, Parry Sound (705-746-5855). Interment of ashes will take place this summer in New Mills, NB, by MacMillan Funeral Home. As expressions of sympathy, donations to Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. To send an on-line condolence, please visit www.logansfuneralhome.com

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Published by Parry Sound News on Jan. 14, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Kathy Spence

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17 Entries

raafe

November 18, 2023

rip my old principal

Saba

January 22, 2023

I was shocked and saddened to hear the news, and want to extend my deepest sympathy to Kathy´s entire family. I had the opportunity to work with Kathy as the VP when she was Principal at Morton Way. We had many laughs together and beautiful memories. We continued to be friends for years after. Her love for her family and commitment to the students, staff and families of Morton Way will never be forgotten. Wishing her family whom she spoke about always ... strength and peace.

January 21, 2023

Deepest sympathies

Keeley MacLean

January 21, 2023

My thoughts are with the Spence and Peterson families. Ken and Manly are my cottage neighbours in NB and I´ve known them since I was 3. So imagine my surprise when 8 or 9 years ago I walked into Kathy´s office at Morton Way for my very first teaching interview to see a beach view I knew by heart hanging on her office wall. 2 days later she hired me and I had to go I to her office to sign paperwork. Again I couldn´t believe the photo I was staring at. She eventually noticed my curious bewilderment and I asked her, " was that picture taken in New Brunswick? I know that place! " It was such a crazy connection to make. That the two of us living in Ontario shared the same beach and cottage spot in tiny old New Mills, New Brunswick. That her dad and uncle were long time friends of my grandparents and my family. Kathy became my first Principal and the stepping stone into my teaching career. I am forever grateful for the fates that brought us together and sparked an immediate connection. Rest In Peace Kathy, you are one of a kind!! - Keeley MacLean

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Bernadine

January 21, 2023

My deepest condolences to your family.
Kathy was the principal at Morton Way public school for many years. She was dedicated and devoted to her work. She gave me great support when I needed it.

Joanna Farias

January 21, 2023

Kathy was such a nice lady and I am so sad to hear about her passing at such a young age. She was my Principal at Morton Way and was so kind and accommodating to me when I lost my father. She always talked about her family. Thinking of her loved ones during this very difficult time.

Johnna

January 20, 2023

My condolences to your family. Kathy was a colleague for many years and was always there for advice in my early years as a VP. May she rest in peace. Johnna

Nicole Mallais Cloutier

January 16, 2023

Sad to hear of the passing of our childhood neighbour at a way too young age. Our deepest sympathies to the Pedersens and Spences.

Donna Cormier

January 15, 2023

Deepest condolences to her family and friends

Pam guitard

January 15, 2023

Marion Audrey David and Kathy's family
Our deepest sympathy always a sweet kid when i knew when she was growing up remember her well and gone tooo soon she was younger then me i think i may have even babysat her hold on to all your Wonderful memories
Scincerly Pam (Miller) and Ferdinand Guitard

Debbie & Rayburn Furlotte (Innis)

January 15, 2023

Deepest sympathy to Marion, Audrey and extended family during this sad time.May Kathy RIP.

Linda Brewer

January 15, 2023

My sincere sympathies to Marion, Audrey and David and Kathy´s family. My thoughts are with all of you.

Kevin Babin

January 15, 2023

So sorry to hear. Spent a lot of time in the Peterson household when we were young. Great family.
Thinking of all of you during this difficult time.

Cathy Thorburn

January 15, 2023

My sincere condolences to Marion, Audrey and David and extended families. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Caryl Appleby

January 14, 2023

Audrey..my deepest sympathies to your family

Toddinya Grant

January 14, 2023

Heaven has gained another angel. Kathy was a great principal and an amazing friend! The boys and I will forever miss you. Gone but NEVER forgotten. I'll see you in my travels

Allison Wilson

January 14, 2023

Rest in peace Kathy. My last principal before I retired in 2019 from Folkstone P.S . I enjoyed our talks.

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