It is with profound sadness that the family of Katherine Dawn Smith, 28, affectionately known as Kat, announce her passing on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
In July of 1995 this world became a better place when Katherine was born in Kentville, Nova Scotia. From an early age Katherine was always loving, caring, protective and an incredible big sister to her brother, Cam. Her smile lit up every room she ever entered and her personality was one that naturally drew people to her as it was larger than life. Growing up, nature and the outdoors was always part of Kat. Whether it was working in the gardens, driving on the tractor working the land, or tending to the animals that was where she found peace. Spending time with her cousins, soaking up wisdom from her grandparents or just making memories, that is who Kat was. It was never about material things for her, experiences and memories were gold.
Katherine always cherished the time she got to spend with her mom while working at Blomidon Provincial Park. Kite Day and making her own kite was an ultimate favorite and being able to operate the gate was a true joy.
This early foundation carried on with Kat. Being outside; most recently finding a love for foraging mushrooms, being with family and of course enjoying good food together was so important. She was fiercely loyal, generous, adventurous, and when Katherine cared or loved she gave it her all no matter the circumstances.
While in school Katherine was involved in Taekwondo and later developed a love for motorcycles joining a veteran’s based riding club 1 CAV-ANZIO riding her 250 Honda Rebel. As she moved from a supporter to a veterans crest when she joined the Forces, she upgraded to her beloved V Star 650.
Katherine graduated from General Panet High School in Petawawa, Ontario, in 2014. Following her graduation, she joined the Canadian Armed Forces in the Communications Trade, spending two years at 2CMBG HQ and Sigs as an Army Communication and Computer Information Technician. She then challenged herself further by joining the Canadian Special Operations Forces where Katherine was Second in Command in the Line section of Special Operations Training Centre. In 2018, Katherine was proud to be selected to be part of the Canadian Special Operations Regiment (CSOR) as a Line Detachment Member; during this time she participated in various deployments. She took pride in this career and valued the relationships that she formed. Katherine wanted to be seen as the hardest working person in the room, not just in work but in life.
After leaving the Military in 2022, Katherine returned to Nova Scotia. She was in the process of establishing a second career in Federal Corrections and during this time of transition she found purpose in waitressing, landscaping and most recently at Kohltech Windows.
Kat took great pride in her personal fitness. She enjoyed setting goals, lifting heavy weights and pushing herself through endurance training. She had two significant accomplishments in this regard; the first being that she completed a marathon portion of a womens team fundraising run in support of Wounded Warriors Canada from Petawawa to Ottawa. Efforts were focused on PTSD and Veterans support initiatives and the importance of mental health. The second was winning the 2CMB 2020 Iron Warrior 38km rucking competition. She appreciated every conversation, was engaged and thoughtful and made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. If you have received a hug from Kat you can contest it was the best thing ever. Kat could turn any challenge into a successful outcome and used opportunities to learn more about herself and others.
Those left to cherish her memory include her father, Kevin Smith (Anik Lapointe), Habitant; mother, Dianne Tough (William Hoskins), Bridgewater; brother, Cameron Smith (Camille Morin), Gatineau, Quebec; step-brother, William Hoskins (Carina Legnaro), Gagetown, New Brunswick and step-sister, Laura Hoskins, Halifax; grandparents, Shirley Smith, Canning, Michael and Irene Tough, Burlington; aunts, Heather Smith (Darren Anderson), Waterville, Angela Tough-Kenneally (Dana), Burlington, and Pheobe White, Port Brandford, Newfoundland; uncle, Michael Tough (Colleen), Kingston. Katherine also leaves behind many cousins, extended family, friends and her beloved dogs, Xena (her person) and Luda. She was predeceased by her grandfather, Arthur Smith; great grandparents, Ruth Smith, Victor Kinsman, Guida and William Joseph Tough; uncle, Garfield White and beloved great aunt, Mary.
There will not be a funeral but there will be a Celebration of Life in pure Kat style at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wounded Warriors Canada or your local SPCA in Katherine’s memory as these were organizations near and dear to her heart. Spreading positivity was also important to Kat, so let’s help continue her legacy by carrying out Random Acts of Kindness in her name. Even though she was only here for a short time she will live on in everyone whose life was touched by her. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall-Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com
In 2023, Kat visited The Inn at Bay Fortune in Prince Edward Island with family and friends and after this visit Kat shared some thoughts. As a family, we would like to give you just a little glimpse of the special girl we had in our lives.
Appreciating Life's Pleasures
Today, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for the things that truly make life worth living – family, friends, food, and the simple pleasures that bring us joy.
Family – the foundation of our lives, the ones who love us unconditionally and support us through thick and thin. They are our rock, our safe haven, and the source of endless laughter and cherished memories. To my family, thank you for being my constant source of love and strength. You are the reason I smile every day.
Friends – the chosen family who walk beside us on this journey called life. They are the ones who lift us up when we're down, who celebrate our victories, and who make every moment unforgettable. To my friends, thank you for being my pillars of support and for filling my life with laughter, adventure, and endless love. I am truly blessed to have you by my side.
Food – the nourishment that not only fuels our bodies but also brings people together! From the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread to the mouth-watering flavors of a home-cooked meal, food has the power to create lasting memories and forge deep connections. To the chefs, the home cooks, and the food enthusiasts, thank you for sharing your culinary creations and reminding us of the joy that comes from savoring every bite! Nothing compares to breaking bread with new friend!
The finer things in life – those moments of pure bliss that take our breath away. It could be the gentle touch of a loved one, the mesmerizing beauty of a sunset, or the soothing sound of raindrops on a windowpane. These are the moments that remind us to slow down, appreciate the present, and find beauty in the simplest of things. Let's cherish these moments and hold them close to our hearts.
Today, I encourage you all to take a moment to appreciate the little things that make life extraordinary. Whether it's the morning dew on the grass or the setting sun sinking below the horizon, let's find joy in the beauty that surrounds us. Let's express our gratitude to those who bring love and light into our lives. Together, let's celebrate the sentimentality and appreciation that make life truly remarkable.
Wishing you all a day filled with love, laughter, and an abundance of gratitude. 🌟
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