It is with great sadness the family announces the sudden passing of Kathleen (Kay) Gerritsen (nee Foy) on February 8, 2024 at the age of 91.

Predeceased by her husband Theo Gerritsen (2023), she will be missed and lovingly remembered by her children John, Pauline and Susan, surviving brother Noel and family, son-in-law David, daughter-in-law Karen, grandchildren Melissa, Stephanie, Daniel (Amanda), Grace and Richard and her wonderful great grandchildren.

Kay lived a full and rich life. Born and raised a devout Catholic in Dublin, Ireland she emigrated to Toronto, Canada in the 1950’s. She worked hard and enjoyed 1950’s Toronto with girlfriends from Ireland, often going dancing on weekends. She forged many new life long friendships during this time and fell in love with Theo Gerritsen who emigrated from Holland. In 1961, Kay and Theo married, settled in Scarborough and started a family.

Kay was the matriarch of our family. She created a warm and loving home, a wonderful place to grow up in and a joyful place for generations that followed. She was known for baking many wonderful treats. She had a special blend of kindness, joy, quiet strength, wisdom and sound values that made her much loved. Family and friends could always count on her for a good chat and a laugh as well as sage advice. She was very fond of a good mystery novel enjoyed with a glass of sherry. Kay camped and travelled with Theo for many years.

In retirement she was an avid Blue Jays fan. She stayed active to the very end of her life, enjoying friendships and activities at the Scarborough Village Recreation Centre.

Kay made a deep and lasting impact on many lives. She will be deeply missed.

Donations can be made in her memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in lieu of flowers.