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Catherine Marie McAvoy
1967 - 2018
Catherine Marie McAvoy
1967 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1967
DIED
2018
Catherine McAvoy Obituary
Passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on Wednesday, January 31st, 2018 in her 51st year. Beloved wife of John Gale of 24 years. Devoted mother of James, Patrick, Maria, Kathleen and Clare. Lovingly remembered by her mother Maureen. Predeceased by her father Daniel. Cherished sister of Mary Anne (John), Jane Marie (William), Martha (Lawrence), Elizabeth, Sarah (Stephen). Dear sister-in-law of Dave (Jane) and Kelly (Steph). Daughter in-law of the late Margaret and George Gale. Dedicated teacher of the DCDSB (St. Patrick, St. Leo, John Paul II). Catherine will be remembered as a talented musician, generously sharing the gift of music with all. Thank you to all who cared for Catherine and supported the McAvoy-Gale family. Your care and compassion are truly appreciated. Family and friends will be received at the OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME 847 King Street West, Oshawa (905-721-1234) for visitation on Sunday, February 4th, 2018 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., Prayers at 8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at ST. GERTRUDE'S CATHOLIC CHURCH (690 King St E, Oshawa) on Monday, February 5th at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. A bursary will be established in Catherine's honour. Donations will support children as they pursue their love of music. These donations can be made by cheque payable to John Gale.
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62 Entries
Grace Harrison
January 25, 2019
Catherine, a dear friend that is often thought of. When ever I would see Catherine's smiling face come in the Curves door, it just made my day because she was so full of energy and fun to be around. Catherine would just brighten up my day with her wonderful sense of humour, she was good at bringing laughter into the gym. We still talk of her, Catherine is very much missed! And I know by many.
February 7, 2018
Mrs McAvoy and family, It is with great sadness that we heard of Catherine's passing. Our family shared many memories at John XXIII and St Gertrude's church every Sunday (front row) Catherine was always a kind beautiful girl. To her husband and family, may God bless you all and keep Catherine close to your heart.
The Woods Family
Kelly Helmer
February 5, 2018
John and family, I was so saddened to hear of Catherines passing! I have such fond memories of times spent together! Her smile could light up a room! Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers!
Andrea Luciuk
February 5, 2018
To dear Elizabeth and all the McAvoy family my deep condolences on the passing of Catherine. I have so many fond memories of your family during our shared days at John XXIII, Paul Dwyer and beyond. Catherine was fun-loving and kind and I always admired her abilities to engage with people and of course her musical talent. I will always be grateful that Catherine was able to sing as part of the funeral mass for my own brother. It meant so much for me and my family to have a family friend generously giving their presence and talents for Jim in such a profound way on that day.
My thoughts are with you and her husband and children at this time. Her generousity and kindness will be remembered.
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Diana Tulk
February 5, 2018
Our deepest sympathies for the great loss of your beloved wife, mother,your beautiful Catherine. We are and will continue to pray for all of you. May God be with you all. Sending you all love. Your neighbour and friends
Steve, Diana, Aiden and Audrey Tulk
linda sweet
February 5, 2018
To the McAvoy and Gale families
We are thinking of you especially today, Monday, as you say goodbye to Catherine. She was a brave woman, a great example to all who knew her.
"Let love melt into memory and pain into songs." R. Tagore
Our deepest sympathy. Joe and Linda Sweet
Lisa Thibodeau
February 4, 2018
My deepest sympathy to the Gale/McAvoy Family.... I had the honour of knowing Catherine as a colleague and friend. She was truly a gifted teacher who would always make time for others. Catherine, I will miss your beautiful voice, your smiling eyes and the way you could always find humour and joy in everything you did. You will be dearly missed and never forgotten. May God Bless you and your beautiful family.
Aunt Judy & Uncle Frank Farrell
February 4, 2018
Gale and McAvoy families, we are thinking of you at this time of loss. Catherine will live on in our memories.
Audrone LeBreton
February 4, 2018
My heart was saddened when I heard about Catherine's passing. She was a stellar student and from the pictures posted, I can see that she became an amazing wife, mother and teacher. Her smile lit up her face and I always remember how her eyes danced and sparkled. My prayers and deepest sympathy go out to the family.
Audrone LeBreton - John XXIII
Melanie Warren
February 4, 2018
John and Family, My deepest condolences to you all at this difficult time . May you hold your memories close to your heart and she will always be with you.
Hoyos Family
February 4, 2018
Angels, have welcomed you in heaven. In your presence they rejoice with your voice and music.Catherine will live in our hearts and minds and memories forever. Her thoughts and ideas, filled with wisdom and love, have been imprinted in our hearts.
February 4, 2018
Mrs. Mcavoy was my kindergarden teacher in 2011/2012. She was an amazing teacher to everyone she taught. She touched the hearts of so many children including myself. I was very heartbroken to hear about the devastating news about her passing. I remember my year with her so very well because of her gentle and loving personality. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. -Kaitlyn Gauthier
Nancy Marques-Cascini
February 4, 2018
It was with great sadness when I heard that I had lost not just a colleague but a neighbour as well. At work I could always count on Catherine to make me smile as she always had something nice to say. I will miss seeing her in the neighbourhood chauffeuring her amazing children who I had gotten to know over the years. Thank you Catherine for the happy memories!
St. Leo Catholic
February 4, 2018
The staff and students of St. Leo Catholic School send their deepest sympathy to the MacAvoy-Gale family during this very difficult time. Catherine's love of music will always be remembered and her musical performances will definitely be missed.
Céline Callender
February 4, 2018
I was saddened to hear of Catherine's passing. She is a bright and loving spirit and I was Blessed to have her as a friend at Dwyer. My deepest condolences to the family. May God surround you with love and light and hold you gently in the palm of his hand.
` Céline
Marion Zimmer
February 3, 2018
Hello John, please know that so many people are thinking of you and your family. Perhaps that will bring a little comfort at this sad time.
Annette Neufeld
February 2, 2018
No words can express our sadness upon hearing of Catherine's passing. She was a beautiful person who always had a bright smile and a sparkle in her eye. Our chats on the phone and when she stopped by were never without a few laughs. Our thoughts and prayers are with you John as well as with the kids and the rest of the McAvoy/Gale family as you adjust to your life from here on. Catherine's faith and zest in life has definately left a legacy on those whose lives she touched as well as with the children and families who were lucky enough to cross her path. God speed my friend as you start the next part of your journey. Much love and our prayers to all. Myke, Annette and Andrew Neufeld
Tanja Courtney
February 2, 2018
John and Family
We are so saddened to hear of Catherine's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Dave and Tanja Courtney
Lonn Horniachek
February 2, 2018
It is with sadness that I learn of Catherine's passing. Please know my prayers are with you all. May God give you strength during this time of grief.
Norah O Meara
February 2, 2018
My heartfelt sympathy to the Gale and McAvoy families....May the ever presence of the Holy Spirit bring you peace at this tragic time...Catherine was a beautiful lady, her smile would light up a room, her singing was Angelica ...She was a breathe of fresh air....in my life....I'm sure she has met God face to face....She will never be forgotten as my breathe of fresh air..Pax Christi
The Doyle Family
February 2, 2018
John & kids - we are so very sorry to hear the news of Catherine's passing. We will really miss her - not only a wonderful and dedicated musician and singer, but also always there to give advice or make a joke (or both at the same time). She was always so kind, caring, and joyful, and she always took the time no matter how busy to stop and have a chat. You are all in our prayers,
Eamonn, Pamela & family
February 2, 2018
We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of a great person who we have known since childhood. Our happy memories will last forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Ann Letheren, Cheryl and family.
Cathy Gaboury
February 2, 2018
Very sorry to hear of the loss of Catherine. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Cathy and Gary Gaboury
Cynthia Shipley
February 2, 2018
My deepest sympathies to the family at this difficult time. Hugs. Cynthia
MaryAdelle Patterson
February 2, 2018
Dear John and Family,
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you all during this time of sadness. Catherine will be missed by all the people whose lives she has touched by her warm smile, infectious laugh and kind words. Her positive spirit and strong faith will live on through her beautiful children. May all the wonderful memories of Catherine continue to bring you all strength and love.
Robin Creasor (nee Smith)
February 2, 2018
I was so sad to hear about Catherine passing. A wonderful woman taken too young. Her beautiful smile was an extension of the joyous song she carried in her heart! My condolences to her family. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
L Randazzo
February 1, 2018
Sending our deepest condolences to the Gale and McAvoy families on the passing of Catherine. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God send Angels to surround you with love and comfort.
From the Randazzo family.
Dean Justus
February 1, 2018
I'm very sorry to hear this news. My condolences to the family.
Cathy Lawless ( Spooner)
February 1, 2018
I was so saddened to hear of Catherine's passing from our friend Gail. I have such fond memories of the gang (Geraldine, Patti, Celine, Gail, myself and of course Catherine) roaming the halls of Dwyer and the many, many laughs we had. She has touched so many more lives since then and every single person was blessed to know her. Your entire family is in our prayers.
Stefanie Cook
February 1, 2018
My heart is incredibly saddened by the passing of Catherine. Having grown up with her son I always experienced nothing but compassion, faith, love and smiles. My thoughts and prayers go to the family and I hope with everything in me you find some sort of comfort and love in these sad and tough times. Love and Condolences from the Cook Family
Linda Singleton
February 1, 2018
I am very sorry to hear the sad news of Mrs. McAvoy's passing. She was such a wonderful person. We had many conversations about music, faith and children. She was a gift to our community and will be forever in our hearts! My condolences to her friends and family. May you find peace in your memories.
Paul and Kelly Hughes & Family
February 1, 2018
Words can't express how sad we are to hear of Catherine's passing. Such a kind soul - always smiling, always welcoming. Our hearts and prayers go out to your family as we share in your sorrow with love and friendship...
Maureen Hughes
February 1, 2018
To my old friend, Liz: I'm so sorry to learn of the death of your sister Catherine! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your whole family at this time. Love to you all,
M McCauley
February 1, 2018
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Catherine. She was such a kind and caring women. My girls enjoyed being in the choir with her at St. Gregs when they were young. May she rest in peace
February 1, 2018
We are so saddened to hear of Catherine's passing. This must be a very tough time for you all and we hope that you are able to find some measure of comfort.
With our most heartfelt sympathy
Sheila Stanley & Manuel Rodenkirchen
Rey & Brenda de Guzman
February 1, 2018
John and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Have comfort that she is no longer in pain and resting in peace. Keep your faith strong.
February 1, 2018
On behalf of Staff at St. Mark Catholic School (LDCSB) you are in our thoughts and prayers, we send our strength to everyone during this difficult time.
Wilfred Camilleri
February 1, 2018
Our heart felt condolences to the family. We were blessed to know Catherine and her dear mother and father from St. Gertrude's. May God grant her eternal peace and salvation. Catherine and Dan will always be in our prayers.
February 1, 2018
To John & the family, we send our sincerest condolences.
Catherine was a real joy and I had the pleasure of spending time with her many years ago at the school bus stop greeting the children with my grandsons', Steven & Christopher, as they arrived from school and the visits while the boys played together. Catherine was so patient & so kind.
May you be strengthened by memories, her loving heart and her faith.
Marilyn & Stan Mankiewicz
Stephanie Banning
February 1, 2018
I am so sorry to hear about Catherine, she was a person that whenever I saw her I was happy, she exuded happiness. We spent many a swimming lesson chatting while our children swam at Camp Samac. My thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow.
Chris Adamthwaite
February 1, 2018
Sending warm and loving thoughts to the Gale-McAvoy family. We are so sad to hear of Catherine's passing. She was an incredible person, who touched everyone she met in a special way. Anyone who knew her is the better for it. God bless you all.
Warmly,
Chris, JD, Liam and Emmett Adamthwaite
February 1, 2018
Our sincerest condolences, Catherine was our daughters Kindergarten teacher and Choir teacher. I volunteered in the class and had the privilege to get to know her personally, she was a lovely person. My daughter Yvette remembers her teaching the choir group and a how she taught them the "million dollar breath", something she found quite amusing. May all of your fond memories get you through this very difficult time. - The Deveaux Family
The McBride Family
February 1, 2018
Mrs.McAvoy helped our daughter find her voice. She was such a beautiful, gentle soul. Catholic education was blessed to have had her as an educator. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Catherine Ecker
February 1, 2018
To the Gale and McAvoy Families
As you begin to walk this familiar path of grief and sadness may you find comfort in the love and life you shared with Catherine. We know Catherine's role in your life has changed, not ended. Our world is a better place because Catherine lived and loved with joy and compassion.
With love and prayers,
Catherine (Coughlin) and Paul Ecker
Whitworth Family
February 1, 2018
So sorry to hear of the passing of Catherine such a beautiful person. Our thoughts are with the family at this very sad time.
Mike Reid
February 1, 2018
I was very sad to hear about Catherine's passing. Catherine was a wonderful woman. She had an infectious laugh and a warm smile. I used to enjoy trying to make Catherine laugh at work, because once she got laughing she had a really hard time stopping herself. She will be deeply missed. Prayers to her family.
Jennifer Tsatsos
February 1, 2018
Please accept our sincerest condolences. Thinking of your family at this difficult time. Please let Claire know that she is in our prayers.
Mara and Jennifer Tsatsos (from Soccer 2017)
Robin Hillyer
February 1, 2018
Catherine will be greatly missed. My condolences to the family in this time of sorrow
Eileen Ethier
February 1, 2018
I was so sorry to hear about Catherine. My thoughts and prayers are with all those touched by this tragic loss. May memories, faith and family give you the strength you need at this difficult time.
Christina and Dan Baturensky and boys
February 1, 2018
Our most sincere condolences to all her family and and her colleagues and friends.. She touched so many lives.. An amazing woman in everything she did... She will be so missed.. Grant peace unto her oh Lord and let perpetual light shine her, may her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.. Amen
Grace Harrison
February 1, 2018
Catherine was such a joy and delight to be around, always a pleasure to see her smiling face, she will be missed. Our thoughts, our prayers and our hearts go out to her family on losing this wonderful person! Grace (Curves)
Dee Miles
January 31, 2018
I'll always remember the first day I met Katherine at St Gertrude's church when we were just kids
She was so sweet kind and smart
And her smile brought sunshine
It was years later I met her again at St Leo's school
And she said " I know you !"
Wow! So many years later and she hadn't changed at all
We were blessed to have her teach everyone of my daughter's
Hannah Hayleigh and Abby
The was best teacher in the world
She gave her best fight
So strong and brave
An inspiration to all
Katherine will be greatly missed
God bless you and your family
Sending love and hugs
Dee Gerry Hannah Hayleigh and Abby
Xoxoxoxoxo
Sarah Crockford
January 31, 2018
Thinking and praying for all of Catherine's loved ones. May you all find love and strength throughout these very difficult times ahead. Catherine was a very special woman. I had the pleasure of knowing Catherine as a colleague, my children's teacher and a dear friend. Catherine's commitment to her faith as well as her love and passion for music will never be forgotten.
Beth Cook
January 31, 2018
I understand your saddness at the passing of someone so loved by you and by many. May the grace and kindness of our LORD give you peace. May Catherine continue to touch your lives with her love.
Karen Bray
January 31, 2018
Sincere condolences to all of Catherine's family. She was certainly a very courageous lady. My heart goes out to her mother, her husband and children.
Thinking of all the family at this very sad time.
Josephine & Michael Geraghty
January 31, 2018
You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this truly difficult time.
Roseanne Lidstone (McAvoy)
January 31, 2018
Catherine, you are an inspiration for us all to appreciate the gift of life and to hold on to it with great courage. My condolences to you John and your family. What amazing care and devotion you showed her.
Allison Rudback
January 31, 2018
My condolences to all of Catherine's family and friends. I will always remember her kindness, her strength, her faith and our many long chats. She will be missed.
Allison
January 31, 2018
I am so sorry to hear of Catherine's passing. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. I will remember her smile and kind spirit forever. God keep you in your time of sorrow. Love to the Gales and McAvoys. Sincerely, Mary Worrall.
Joe Szekeres
January 31, 2018
My prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. I was always so pleased when Catherine would stop by to visit in the Library for a few minutes when she was on Board business. May God bless her and may he keep all of you close to him.
Catherine Homeniuk
January 31, 2018
Loving and prayerful thoughts being sent to the Gale, McAvoy families. Catherine was truly a wonderful soul and will be forever missed. Our sincere condolences from the Homeniuk Family.
Catherine & Meredith, Meghan, Mark and Sarah xo
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847 King Street West, Oshawa, ON L1J 2L4
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