Gare, Catherine Isabel

It is with sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Mom, Cathy Gare on March 17, 2023, at Jubilee Manor in Nelson, peacefully falling asleep after a life well lived.

Cathy was born on November 2, 1930, to parents John and Mary Morrison in Nelson B.C., where she grew up with her seven siblings, attending St Joseph’s School. She would be a lifelong resident of Nelson where she met her husband Ernie Gare and raised a family of six children. Sadly, she was predeceased by Dad after 29 years of marriage as Dad was diagnosed with ALS in the fall of 1979. We witnessed firsthand Mom’s devotion and love as she cared for our Dad during the difficult two years before his passing at 52. Her amazing strength and her love of family carried her through the next 42 years of her life. Cathy was a community minded person volunteering for numerous causes including the Ernie Gare Scholarship Society, and the ALS Society of BC. She also was the Chairperson for the 1989 BC Winter Games hosted in Nelson. Mom was a long-time member of Blessed Sacrament parish and a firm believer in her Catholic faith.

Mom is survived by her six children, Ernie (Debi), Danny, Glenda (Tom), Mary Anne (Jim), Jennifer, and Morey (Robin)  19 grandchildren Skyler, Lanny, Grady, Leath, (Ernie & Debi’s) Danielle, Kelly, (Danny & Maryann’s) Jessica, Jamie,(Tom & Glenda’s) Katy, Brendan, Tara, Liam, (Jim & Mary Anne’s) Amy, Jillian, Heather, Taylor, (Doug & Jennifer’s) Logan, Gabbi, Grayson (Morey & Robin’s) and 24 great grandchildren. She was truly loved and cherished by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren along with her nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by husband Ernie, her parents, Mary and John Morrison, brothers Jack (Doris), Paddy, Frank, Linus, Mickey, and sisters Margaret (Mort) and Mary (Marsh).

A special thank you to the many friends of the family who have been there for Mom over the years. The family also wishes to express sincere appreciation to the staff at Lake View Village, Mountain Lake Seniors Community and Jubilee Manor, as well as Dr. Woodward and Dr. Janz for their compassion and care.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held to celebrate Mom’s faith at 11:00 AM on July 29, 2023,  Cathedral of Mary Immaculate Church, 813 Ward Street, Nelson BC, followed by a family and friends gathering at Lakeside Park. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, we suggest a donation of remembrance to the local charity  Nelson & Area Friends of the Family