Obituary of Catherine Elizabeth Whelan

Whelan, Catherine Elizabeth (nee Ryckman) Catherine Whelan, affectionately known to all as Cathy, passed away peacefully with family by her side on September 28th, 2016 following a courageous and gracious battle with Multiple Systems Atrophy. In spite of her early and untimely passing, Cathy’s infectious enthusiasm for all aspects of life afforded her with an abundance of amazing life experiences and fulfilling opportunities. She lived a rich and happy life living it to the fullest. Every friend, student and family member whose life she touched were richly blessed by her caring and generous nature, touching each life with respect and kindness. Born in London, Ontario in 1958, Cathy grew up in a loving, academic and sport-minded family. In her youth she played basketball and softball and later in life she enjoyed golfing, boating and entertaining at their Long Point cottage. Cathy graduated from the University of Guelph and later earned her teaching degree at Althouse College in London, Ontario. She met her husband Stephen (Steve) Whelan at Sunningdale Golf and Country Club with whom she shared 35 incredible years, together raising two amazing children – Ben and Megan. Her spirit is carried on by her mother and father Liz and Don Ryckman; brother Steve (Alison Ryckman). She was a dearly loved mother of son Ben (Petya Whelan) of Kelowna, BC; daughter Megan (Dave Rudd) of Guelph, Ontario. Dear sister in law of Joanne (Dave Duff) of Novi, Michigan; John (Pam Whelan) of Kitchener, Ontario. Predeceased by her in laws Wes and Marilyn Whelan and brother in law Terry Whelan. She will also be missed by her many nieces and nephews Nick, Jordan and Madison Duff, Zack and Zane Whelan, Matt and Sarah Ryckman. Cathy realized her life-long dream of becoming a Teacher. For 29 years she rewardingly taught virtually every grade 7 and 8 student who attended VMS and Royal Roads school in Ingersoll, Ontario including her own children Ben and Megan. After her diagnosis with MSA she often spoke of how much she wished that she could continue to live her passion for teaching. Friends and family will always remember Cathy for her unconditional love for them and how they and their needs always came first. She will also be remembered for her sharp sense of humor and quick wit. Cathy loved to entertain and will be remembered for her ability to organize, host and enjoy a great party or family dinner. Steve and Cathy’s family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Tammy Erhardt for her friendship, love and compassionate care she provided Cathy these past 18 months. Additionally, our sincere gratitude to all who supported us through Cathy’s illness, friends, neighbors, family, Dr. Kurt Kimpinski of University Hospital, CCAC and the caring staff at Norfolk General Hospital. Cremation has taken place and as per Cathy’s wishes there will be no visitation. Family, Friends, Neighbors and Students are invited to a celebration of Cathy’s life at Sunningdale Golf and Country Club, 465 Sunningdale Rd west, London, Ontario on Sunday, October 2nd from 2 to 5 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Baseline Road East, London, On N6C 2R6 to the CNS Neuromuscular Research 45-130-26 (LHSF.ca) or to a charity of your choice, would be appreciated. (John T. Donohue Funeral Home)