Catherine Montgomery Emmerson, (née Allan)

Catherine Montgomery Emmerson (née Allan), having wrung out the last drop of her long life, passed in comfort and serenity at Queens Village for Seniors early on Sunday morning, December 8, 2024, in her 103^rd year. Predeceased by George, her husband of many decades. Kate, as George and her many friends and family knew her, had an endearing, gracious, natural dignity about her. Her love of music, dance and Art, painting in particular, together with an avid interest in books with a wide range of subject matter kept her mind alert and engaged almost to the end. Her ready laugh betrayed a keen wit and an appreciation of nuance and absurdity. She will be fondly remembered for her evening “Salons” attended by an eclectic group of art enthusiasts, professionals, family, neighbours and just plain friends.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, she grew up the sole daughter of a family with roots in the industrial guilds and farming communities around Glasgow and Dunbarton. She served in the Land Army during WWII and with George and infant son, Mark, emigrated to Berkeley, California shortly after the war. Having spent five years there, they returned to Glasgow, then Largs, then Culcheth in Lancashire and thence, in 1958, to Ancaster, Ontario. Kate’s final home was in London, Ontario from 1963.

That she had what the Scots call smeddum in abundance was, at times, just as well. At age 90, her house went on fire. The home-help had just entered when the alarm went off and she escaped in a nightdress, a cutty sark. A year later, she returned to her restored home, determined to live on her own terms, declaring that she was not leaving other than in a pine box. With family help, she remained there until, at 97, ‘safety’ dictated a move to Queens Village. Despite her earlier resolve, she adapted well and greatly appreciated the kindness and consideration of the staff as, in her latter couple of years, she was plagued with numerous persistent ailments and infirmities requiring their care.

Even in her final weeks, Kate enjoyed art and photos of people and places, pointing out and commenting on features and colours. Near the end, upon being shown a short video of her great grandson, Flynn, playing the piano, she pointed at him shouting “That’s my boy.”

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, yet to be determined.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Kate are asked to select a charity of your choice.