In Memoriam
Kathleen Adele Toye (Née Potter)

It is with great sadness that the family of Kaye Toye announces the passing of one of Niagara-on-the-Lake's longest living residents. Kaye was always a vibrant and compassionate person, and an active member of the Horticultural Society, the Evergreens Choir, Library Board, the One Mile Creek Association and the Historical Society. Kaye, at the impressive age of 95½, remained fiercely independent until the very end, determined to “paddle her own canoe”. She was even living alone in her family home and behind the wheel until only a few days before her final illness, which is exactly what she would have wished. A born chatelaine and socialite, she was constantly planning her next luncheon or afternoon tea, and she was famous for her garden parties. Kaye was known for her outspoken nature, especially regarding social issues and injustices, which she always strove to rectify. She was particularly instrumental in the assistance of local animals and nature, and she spent her long and fulfilling life making her community safer and more enjoyable for those who could not fight for themselves. Born in 1919, many will know of her encyclopedic knowledge of the history of Niagara, knowledge that has been called upon for numerous books, plaques and articles. One of her favourite stories was hearing the legendary broadcast of King George VI’s speech to the empire in 1939, which many will know from the recent film The King’s Speech. Kaye lived and thrived through the Depression, two World Wars, countless social and technical advances, and watched the world change and grow. She was from a different era, yet seemed to be able to adapt to every new shift with a flexibility and tolerance that is not often associated with people of her age. Kaye never lost her ability to engage in spirited conversation. She could converse and relate with people of all ages, from all walks of life, and she brightened the lives of everyone she knew. She was truly a Renaissance woman, with a wonderful sense of humour and a marvelous sense of the absurd.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Christopher and Lori, their daughter Sarah, her daughter and son-in-law Sandra and Michael, their son Damien, as well as too many friends and acquaintances to even begin to name. The family would like to thank the staff at the St. Catharines and Niagara Falls Hospitals for their assistance and compassion during this difficult time, and we would ask any well-wishers to send donations to Niagara Animal Assistance or Haven of the Heart, two of Kaye’s favourite charities that provide assistance to animals in need.
A celebration and commemoration will be held in Kaye’s memory in the spring of 2015.
Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.morganfuneral.com