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Catherine Schaefer

Image by Nick Andréka

CATHERINE SCHAEFER

July 28, 1961 - May 15, 2025

Catherine was predeceased by her father Ted; and is survived by her mother Nicola; and brothers, Dominic (Erin) and Ben.


Catherine was known for many qualities and accomplishments, particularly her extensive work to inspire and motivate innovation in social causes such as inclusion and community living for people with intellectual and physical disabilities. She was also widely recognized for her abilities around teaching and informing, as well as her gift for bringing about positive change and progress. As notable as these achievements were, they only hint at who she was as a person.


In 1999, her mother Nicola wrote this summation of Catherine’s character which could have been written today:


“In a world where we tend to be too busy and too hurried, she helps us to slow down… tied to this is her quiet ability to help us appreciate our own capabilities, and also to recognize, and even deal with, our own frailties. She encourages us to be resourceful and creative. She is a good (if captive) listener. She is an understanding and forgiving friend. She has a lovely sense of humour, and the timing with which she falls apart laughing- often at a moment of disaster- is frequently just what is needed as a tension-breaker. She’s a great introducer; I know of many good friendships between people who have met through her. As I write that, I realize that many of my closest and most lasting friendships have been initiated by my daughter. Cath is truly a marvellous teacher and educator… She is also an employer… We need to recognize that our sons and daughters with disabilities have the capacity to provide fulfilling employment for others. Not a bad list of credentials, I reckon, for someone who was initially written off as a sort of medical dud. Catherine, despite all her difficulties, is a woman of influence and is truly what we all strive to be- a productive member of society.”


Catherine was a charming, singular and beautiful person who enriched the lives of all who knew her and we miss her terribly.


Heartfelt thanks to all of Catherine’s extraordinary support staff and her palliative care team. A celebration of her remarkable life will take place in the fall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to L’Avenir Cooperative or your preferred charity.


Catherine’s family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Vanessa Mackeil (Manwaring family)

June 12, 2025 at 6:33 PM

Cath was a remarkable woman. I had the privilege of knowing her not only through our families' long friendship, but also through the time I spent working for her many years ago. Those moments remain close to my heart.

From attending my wedding to the times I’d run into her in the community, Cath’s infectious smile and laugh always lit up the room. She touched so many, and will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

 

Our heart goes out to Nicola, Ben, Dominic and all her family and friends.

 

With much love and sympathy

Rebecca Ehnes

June 6, 2025 at 1:13 PM

I read about Catherine before I met her and then had the good fortune to become her teacher at Gordon Bell High School. We sure had some fun in that class. I'm grateful to Catherine and Nicola for starting L'avenir - it has made a real and wonderful difference in my son David's life, and in mine too.

Lynell Bergen

June 5, 2025 at 12:25 PM

We have fond memories of sharing life with Catherine, back in 1992-93. I recall there was a 6-toed cat that adopted us, and she loved hanging out on Cate's always-available lap.

Peace and blessings to you as you remember and celebrate Cate's life.

Lynell and Brian

Tammy Lamb

June 1, 2025 at 2:14 PM

I remember reading the book written by her mother, "Does She Know She's There?" it was a very impactful story. So very sorry to hear of your loss.

Joyce Sims

June 1, 2025 at 2:11 PM

I had the pleasure of seeing Catherine regularly in the halls and common areas in our Coop home. Best memories were prayers in her later weeks, long happy life for a unique and loveable lady. Rest in Peace, sweet one, 🙏🌹🙏

Hélène Perreault - Bill Caley

June 1, 2025 at 11:55 AM

Our most sincere condolences to Nicola, Dominic and Ben.

 

Sherrill Ruckert

June 1, 2025 at 10:30 AM

In the years where Cath and I lived together, we shared so many adventures together, the memories are flooding in. One of my fondest is how Cath taught me to move my hand the way she moved hers. So intricate-- her very own tai chi. Sharing life with her opened my eyes to the beauty of the world we share

 

Alison Ouellette, Windsor, ON

May 31, 2025 at 5:53 PM

Such a beautiful woman who we admired . Her leadership is a treasure we value highly.

Love to Nicola , her brothers and all her family and friends.

Dave Wright

May 31, 2025 at 9:44 AM

Catherine was a dear friend and teacher. She had a tremendous impact on my life and many others. Cate will be missed.

Cindy Hayman

May 31, 2025 at 7:06 AM

 

What a gift it was to have met and worked with Catherine in the early ‘80s. Both Catherine and her mother, Nicola, taught me that it’s not about how much we can do, but how we do what we can. Catherine’s laughter was contagious—and yes, she certainly loved a good mishap!

Heartfelt hugs to you Nicola and your family❤️

Dianne Johnson

May 31, 2025 at 7:03 AM

I worked for Catherine. I was employed by L'Avenir Cooperative from 1994 to 2000. It was a profound time for me and I made lifelong friendships. Thank you Cath.

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Ethical Death Care (Death Care Services Inc.) is privately, independently, and locally owned. Shane Neufeld and the original team of Integrity Death Care own and manage this organisation.

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