![MacDuffee Web Frame](https://www.eganfuneralhome.com/wp-content/uploads/MacDuffee-Web-Frame.jpg)
With a feeling of profound loss, we announce the passing of Kathryn Harriet MacDuffee (née Adamson) on the 12 day of June 2024 in her 88th year after a short illness. Kathryn was dearly loved by many and will be enormously missed by her sister Bonnie (Dick), four children Misty (Ron), Jamie (Amanda), Cameron (Karen) and Kira (Edward) and her 2 grandchildren Laura and Bryn (Ashley). Devoted wife of 50 years to Richard James MacDuffee (2009) they raised a family and built a home, a business and a beautifully rich life on a hill in Caledon, Ontario. Kathryn touched the lives of so many every day and worked tirelessly to leave the planet and the people in it better off than she found it. Her love and passion for humanity and her unwavering ability to see the best in people without judgement was reflected in all of her activities – her days spent on the farm in Palgrave, on the waters in Honey Harbour and the Kawartha’s, and hours of service to her children and community. Born in St Catherines, Ontario to Ethyl and William Adamson, Kathryn received her teachers certificate in Toronto and began a lifelong career in primary education, reluctantly retiring in 2019 at the age of 83. Her endless list of accomplishments and achievements continue to be seen and celebrated by those who knew her. This eternally youthful woman had a vibrant spirit that danced in her soul from the day she was born until the day she left us. With love forever….. A private green burial was held on Cortes Island June 14, with a public celebration of life to be held later this year in Ontario. The family is grateful to the Death Caring Collective for their guidance, assistance, and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Collective through the Cortes Island Community Foundation, “Death, Disability & Elder Care” fund, who will issue a tax deductible receipt. Donations may also be made to the Raincoast Conservation Foundation (Raincoast.org).
Offer Condolence for the family of Kathryn Harriet MacDuffee (née Adamson)
![Print Obituary & Condolences Print Obituary & Condolences](https://www.eganfuneralhome.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-print/images/print.gif)
Elyse Chan
Sincere condolences. Kay was a bright light, always positive and loving. I am so grateful to have known her and shared meaningful conversations and laughter. May you be surrounded by her love and light always.
Kelley Potter
Oh gosh, I’m sorry to hear of this but when I think of Kay, a smile comes to me. She was always so full of life. Such a warm, and giving lady who was interested in others and how to make things better. She is a great example to all of us in how to live a life filled with grace and exuberance. We are all the better for having known her.
Sheila Paradi
I am feeling sad reading your touching and beautiful words about your Mom. Whenever I met her she always had such a welcoming smile and took time to have a conversation. I still fondly remember the enthusiastic support and presence of both your Mom & Dad at Humberview Band concerts and school events. Keep taking care of each other during this time.
Sheila (Stewart) Paradi
Debbie Marshall
So sad to hear this news, Kay left memories of happiness and smiles. Such a gentle sweet person, may she rest in peace.
Debbie Marshall
Ken and Chris Graham
What a terrible loss for a life well lived. Your beautiful obituary describes Kay to a “T”. I loved talking to her and hearing about her latest adventure. I remember well her column in the Bolton Enterprise. Who else could hop in a hot air balloon in a race across Australia? I call her the perpetual teenager. She was probably the most optimistic person I know. As a teacher, Kay was the one you wish your children could experience, even at 83. Our condolences to her family and may her spirit carry on.
Steve R
RIP to you and hope you and Rich are together in peace
Kay Peck
Kay was such a bright light. She had so much warmth and compassion, I’m sure she will continue to shine in those that had the pleasure to meet her.
Marnie Singleton
To the MacDuffee Family,
Sorry to hear of the loss of Kay. She was an amazing force in the community, always leading with a smile.
Marnie
Pam McGugan
Dear Misty, Jamie, Cam and Kira,
What a beautiful tribute to your beautiful mother. You have captured her boundless spirit of positivity and her passion for family and community. Condolences.
Mary Moore
Just so very sorry to hear this news! I remember that whenever Kay entered the doors at Palgrave School was a special day. Kay greeted everyone with the most beautiful smile that lit up her entire face and truly made everyone feel valued. I cannot think of Kay without seeing her magnificent smile and hearing her laughter. She laughed easily and, as your write-up says, was indeed eternally youthful. I admired Kay so much and have thought of her, and you, her wonderful family, so often throughout the years. My sympathy goes out to you all.
Mariia Kupriianova
A beautiful life well lived, and a tragic loss for Caledon. Kay’s heart has always been in the community, and her kindness has touched many lives. We are so grateful to have been a part of Kay’s story. May her memory be a blessing.
Mariia and all of us at Caledon Community Services.
Monty Laskin
Sending my heartfelt condolences to Kay’s family and friends and the hundreds of people who adored this woman for all that she gave and gave and gave. A heart of gold, passion and compassion for everything and everyone, the brightest of lights. I so appreciated the guidance that she offered me on matters of community building during my time in Caledon. Rest in peace Ms. MacDuffee
Melissa Speirs Osland
Our families connected through the Albion Bolton Student Exchange in the early 1980s. From Arctic adventures to hot air balloon treks across Australia, our families have been forever changed. Kay was my cheerleader in all things education, motherhood, and living one’s best possible life. Kay stepped up for so many people, and her legacy is to be honoured. Melissa Speirs Osland.
Deb MacDuffee
So sorry to hear about Kay. Loved her. She was amazing. Got to have lunch with her in Toronto last October. So thankful for that time with her. See you in Ontario. Lots of love cousin Deb .
Cathy Pley
When I think of Kay, I see her big smile and radiant presence. Kay was a delight to know and work with. My sincerest condolences to her family and to all her knew her.
Joanne O'Sullivan
I’m so sorry to hear this news. Sending my condolences and love to the entire MacDuffee family. I have such fond memories of your mother. May she rest in peace xo
Victoria Copeland
I remember Kay teaching, writing, sharing with such enthusiasm. She always made each day she arrived at Palgrave School brighter and her joy with life was beautiful . Remembering Kay and her joyful nature makes today brighter.