RG Sun, 28 Feb 2010 02:43:19 GMT -8

So sorry to hear your last moments, and those of your companions, were so difficult. Think of you all every day, And wonder where is your sister Sandy, and parents, Lois and Peter, in this memorial?

Shaira Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:23:35 GMT -8

thank you

Joshua Mira Goldberg Sat, 30 Jan 2010 10:06:23 GMT -8

Shaira wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you, and especially yesterday. From other friends dying knew to expect that when the immediate shock of sudden death wears off there would then be a totally surreal long hard slog of grief made particularly surreal by the rest of the world moving on at a pace that is totally out of sync but that doesn't make it easier. Although the nature of Catherine's wonderful life and our long-distance friendship and working relationship was such that many of the memories are very joyous and a source of happiness rather than sorrow, it is still so freakin' sad and am sure that day to day it is still unbearably painful for you and the many people who were so immersed in day to day life with Catherine. Just wanted to let you know that we are still keeping Catherine close in our hearts and minds and you too.

Jeremiah Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:18:35 GMT -8

Shaira-

I think of you often. I know how much I love and miss Catherine, and I was only seeing Catherine at 3 Bridges. I knew her only 3 years. She was so wonderful, all the time. I have told people how I could track how comfortable Catherine and I were with each other by how often we swore, and it was only September when she stopped even bothering to say, "Pardon my French" when doing so (I was ecstatic). I remember being delighted when she mentioned you as her husbutch. It was so evident how she loved you. I think of her so often, and the painful irony of our last session being about dealing with grief is not lost on me.

Catherine has made a huge impact on my life, and I will never forget her.

I wish there was more I could do for you than tell you how much she changed my life for the better. I would not have survived the last three years without her.

Although we have never met, I have faith in Catherine's ability to love wisely, and my thoughts and my love are with you.

James Diamond Sat, 16 Jan 2010 00:24:20 GMT -8

when i tell people you don't know about you they ask if you had kids.you kinda did.saving lives creates quite a bond!.your memory continues to save me .thanks for living such a full life.we are seriously fortunate to have experienced your prowess.you eclipse the glare of chaotic greed that threatens to swallow anyone who hasn't learnt how much we are worth yet...you must have loved yourself well.good job.thanks for listening with your heart and speaking truth.

jil p. weaving Thu, 14 Jan 2010 10:09:58 GMT -8

Catherine, I know the people who loved you more closely than I knew you. I know you were much loved and will be dearly missed. My thoughts are with Shaira and all of those whose lives have been so changed by your loss.
deepest sympathies - jil

RG Sat, 09 Jan 2010 04:10:26 GMT -8

We were so young Cath, and then we are not, but we have not forgotten. Thank you...

Florida

A couple of young girls went
Sailing down A1A
Into the arms of Florida
Sailing down a highway
Singing their heads off
Protected by the holy ghosts
Flying in from the ocean
Driving with their eyes closed

The night wants to kiss you deep
And be on his way
Pretend he don't know you the very next day
Isn't it hard sometimes
Isn't it lonely?
How I still hang around here
And there's nothing to hold me

You slide down into the seat
From twelve hours on your feet
And get the tide to wash you away
For thousands and thousands of days
And someone you never meet
Signs a check you get every week
You try and still can't forget
All the strangers that you have met

The night never owed you nothing anyway
Makes promises that he never intends to keep every day
Isn't it hard sometimes
Isn't lonely?
How I still hang around here
And there's nothing to hold me

Every time, every year
The travelers come and go
You see them landing with their pale wings
And flying back to the snow
And the summer comes marching in
With his heavy boots on
Kicking along the blacktop
Sidewalks of A1A
The young girls in their bare feet
Cigarettes smoking
Looking every which way
Wishing and hoping

And you want the night just to let you sleep
And be on his way
Wrap you up in some cool sheets
And have nothing to say

Isn't hard sometimes
Isn't it lonely?
How I still hang around here
And there's nothing to hold me

Devon MacFarlane Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:25:18 GMT -8

Oh Shaira,
It’s been a month since Catherine’s death and I’ve been thinking about you so much since I heard. My heart goes out to you!

I’ve also been thinking of how much I treasure having known Catherine, how much I’ll carry with me into the future. It’s so, so much.

A few things that I’m thinking of right now is what an enormous difference she made in the world, to so many people, and in so many different ways. And how incredibly fully she lived her life, and with such passion – she exuded such a sense of aliveness! What a powerful example she set & sets for us all, on so many different levels.

I’m thinking about what important roles she played in advancing health & wellbeing of queer, trans & Two Spirit folks in Vancouver & beyond. For me, it made such a difference knowing she was doing the work she was doing, at Three Bridges, & within Vancouver Coastal Health. Her work had huge impacts for her clients & their family & friends; in developing & supporting programs; in advocacy for clients; in sharing her knowledge through the Trans Care Guidelines, & many more ways.

For me, it was amazing to have her as a role model, and someone to talk with, about working within queer, trans and Two Spirit communities, and also being heavily involved in one’s personal life, and handling the overlaps. It can be such a complex dance, and it’s one she did so well.

I’m thinking about how much fun it was to work with her on different projects. The first project we were both involved in was the Queer Women’s & Trans Health Series. Oh my - I loved her irreverent humour – I laughed so hard in some of those meetings! It’s the most fun I’ve ever had in a committee, and it was largely due to her! Something I’d already been doing, based on that experience, is when I’m setting up a new work group, I’ve often mentioned that I think it’s really important that a group has fun working together – that laughter, irreverence (and for me a degree of goofiness & appreciation for bad puns) is critical to a group’s success.

I’m smiling through tears as I think of her, and I think I’ll be doing that for a long, long time.

Devon

Adrijo Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:39:27 GMT -8

I have never known Catherine but have seen her in the Community for the past 20 something years. This past summer I was waiting in line to see Jodaiko at the Roundhouse and I use a cane and Catherine came over and asked me if I needed a chair and informed me that if I couldn't make it up the stairs I could sit next to her and her friends because she was going to sit in the front row. I was so surprised by how considerate and kind and inclusive she was to a stranger. I had no idea what an Advocate and Tour-de-Force she was in our Community. Although I don't know you Shaira I am truly sorry for your loss of such a wonderful and loving woman who has touched the lives of so many, no matter how brief, I am sure none of us will ever forget her and you and your friends and family are so blessed to have known her.

Doug Girling Thu, 24 Dec 2009 15:52:47 GMT -8

Oh Catherine, Johanna told us about your passing. To have missed you by only a few weeks only to find it is an eternity. You were a stellar person and I'll miss your bright laugh and the head bob with which you tossed back your hair.

RG Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:25:30 GMT -8

Strings in the earth and air
Make music sweet;
Strings by the river where
The willows meet.

There's music along the river
For Love wanders there,
Pale flowers on his mantle,
Dark leaves on his hair.

All softly playing,
With head to the music bent,
And fingers straying
Upon an instrument.


'Strings in the earth and air' is reprinted from Chamber Music. James Joyce. London: Elkin Mathews, 1907.

Susan Stewart Sun, 20 Dec 2009 20:27:48 GMT -8

Shaira, I just found out. I am deeply saddened. Catherine was a bright light for so many and a good friend to all who had the good fortune to know her. My heart is with you.

Francois Levesque Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:00:06 GMT -8

I am absolutely shocked! I just found out when I got the XTRA WEST today. She helped me get on disability 4 months ago. I met her in Aug of 2007. she helped me with 2 applications, when my doctor didn't fill them right the first time. Thank you Catherine for your patience and kindness. Condolences to your family and Shaira. I have never met you but Catherine seemed very happy being married.

Ian Verchere Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:15:47 GMT -8

We shared a common bathroom/foyer for some years in Melton Court, left our doors open so our cats could hang out. Conjoined room-mates? Not sure what to call it.

I am gutted by this news. As warm, compassionate and committed a person as I have ever and will have the privilege to know. My deepest sympathies to family and loved ones.

Richard O'Donnell Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:05:10 GMT -8

I was just reading the article on Catherine in Xtra West and I just wanted to let you know that as the we at Boys'R'Us are all very grateful for the work Catherine did with and for us over the years. I know she personally touched the lives of many of the Boys'R'Us participants in her work as a community consellor. She was also a bright light here at 3Bridges Community Health Centre, I would often run into her in the halls here and she would ask how I was doing and how the program was doing and I always got the feeling that she cared about the answer.
We had our Holiday Dinner last night and one of our traditions is to take a few minutes before dinner to thank everyone that makes our program happen and Catherine was mentioned on that list. I also want to thank you for mentioning us in the Xtra West article, it is an honour and priveledge to be associated with such a wonderful human being. It was a pleasure to have known her.

Greg Bender and Ted Geever Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:51:44 GMT -8

My heart is sad and I we are so honored to have had you both in our home. All our love, Greg and Ted

Patricia Shriver Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:06:42 GMT -8

Her beautiful smile, her welcoming warmth. These are the memories that will stick with me of the lovely Catherine. I didn't know you well, Catherine, but I appreciated what I knew and I know how much you were loved by friends and family. May your spirit find peace in this transition.

Shaira: My heart goes out to you now and forever. Peace my 'sister in arms'.

Mitch and Jean Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:34:05 GMT -8

It pains us greatly that we could not attend Catherines wake and look upon her beautiful face one last time.
I have many words in my head to describe how much I liked Catherine but the sum of it is that she was "the best of us". The best that we could be individually she was all of that and more. She had the inner grace of a very old soul and I stand in awe of the sizable void caused by her passing.
And if one could choose ones death she did it well...being in the moment...doing something fun!!!
Our hearts go out to you Shaira and to the handful of others who had the great privilage and joy of calling her "lover".

Trinita Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:54:31 GMT -8

Shaira & all of Catherine's families and friends. It was a shock to find out that Catherine was on of the " chosen" 6. I did not know her well but I do remember her wonderful laugh. Judging from the posts- a lifetime of good was compressed into her all to short 55 years. My heart goes out to you all at this very sad time. Much love, Trinita

Shaira/Sid Thu, 10 Dec 2009 22:47:45 GMT -8

I am overwhelmed by the love and support surrounding Catherine and myself. The Wake was beautiful and terrible. Catherine would have loved it. I have no words to express the thanks I feel for your love and support. This page is some comfort to me as go thro the awful days and nights without my beloved catherine. I will try to write more when I am able. now I will try to sleep.

Elijah Spellman Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:37:49 GMT -8

Sid,

I am Kristen's Daddy and fiance. I did not know you or Catherine except for what Kristen has shared with Me. I just wanted to offer My most heartfelt sympathy for your loss. It is unimaginable to Me the loss you must be feeling. I wish for you good friends and comfort while you grieve and the hope that peace will eventually find you again.

My Sincerest Condolences,

~Elijah

Bonnie R Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:18:39 GMT -8

I had heard about the plane crash but had no idea, until today, that Catherine had been involved in it. It is so shocking and so very sad.

It was just over 20 years ago that I first met the force of nature known as Catherine. It was a community social group that was forming. I recognized her generosity of spirit and willingness to share knowledge right away. Not long after that, about 18 months, I moved away from Vancouver. Over the years we would run into each other at one conference or another.

As the years passed I witnessed her becoming even more radiant than when we first met.

I will light a candle for her and for you Shaira as well.

Vic Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:18:23 GMT -8

Last night I worshipped at the WISE ~ HOUSE OF CATHERINE.

It was a very powerful and moving experience to be surrounded by so much love!

Catherine's fab/feisty/fun spirit will live on...
She was truly a force!

Shaira,
Thank you so much for sharing your voice with us and for allowing/encouraging us all to share our voices with you; with each other.
"Let's sing it again!"
Now - whenever I hear that song - I will think of you and your beautiful Catherine and the delightfully intense love you shared.

Daisy Mairena Wed, 09 Dec 2009 18:09:16 GMT -8

Dearest Catherine:

A graceful spirit....
A giving heart....
A beautiful soul....

Those are just a few of the thoughts that come to my mind every time I think about you. It has been very hard to accept your sudden an unexpected departure - no one was prepared for this.

Catherine, you were an incredible special person. Your beautiful personality sparkled like a precious gem. I feel so honoured to have known you. Thank you for always being there for me.

I will miss you terribly but I find comfort knowing that your graceful spirit will forever live in my heart through all the beautiful memories shared.

My deepest condolences to Shaira and Catherine's family. Please know that my thoughts and love are with you.

Daisy Mairena

Donna N. Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:45:12 GMT -8

My heart is heavy for the loss to Shaira and all of Catherine's friends & family!

Even though I only knew Catherine for a short time her love of life, passion for her work, and great spirit were evident to see each and every day.

What a great vision she has provided us on how to life our lives!

My deepest sympathies to you all!
Donna Nicholson (3 Bridges)

Donna Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:47:30 GMT -8

Shaira, you have been much in my thoughts and my heart goes out to you as you grieve the death of your beloved Catherine.

I am so very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Catherine over many years. She was a passionate visionary with such a compassionate and generous heart. She made such a difference in the lives of so many individuals and contributed to justice and change in many different communities.

I will miss her warm hugs, hearty laughter, and beautiful smile.

Rick Bennett Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:08:16 GMT -8

My heart is heavy having just heard that Catherine has 'left the building'. But I take enormous joy in having spent time with her, visiting, talking, sharing beers and pie in the West End.
And enjoying her visits to San Francisco. Amen to having pictures and memories!
I must go raise a mug in honor of such a fine spirit!

Ticha and Joanne Wed, 09 Dec 2009 10:22:39 GMT -8

Dear Shaira,

We are so sorry for the loss of Catherine. We are sorry for your loss. We are sorry for the loss to her family. We are sorry for our community and many communities that shared in the gifts that Catherine so generously offered.

We are grateful that Catherine touched our lives so profoundly... treasured memories, secrets to be kept forever and stories never to be forgotten - laughter and tears. Fragments - like pieces of fabric on a quilt - swirl in our thoughts and hearts... blackboard sketches, singing on the porch, duct tape, decorating sugar skulls, hems mended, spices and fragrant kitchens, lattes, tea, lingerie, dancing and birthdays and a wedding, motorcycle rides to far away seashores, whispering and giggling, clutched hands in friendship and conspiracies, stillness, heartaches and sighs. Words spoken and words left unspoken. Her heart was bigger than the ocean. We will treasure Catherine's memory always.

Ticha and Joanne

Miss K Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:56:03 GMT -8

Catherine was kind to me during a time when I was rarely kind to anyone. I will always remember her in the wedding gown Jack made for her, with you, Shaira, by her side. I send you rivers of love from my broken heart as I leave Seattle to head for her wake in Vancouver. "May her memory be for blessing."

Jaymie Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:54:11 GMT -8

Thankyou Catherine for guiding me through difficult times I will miss you.

louise van duuren Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:36:30 GMT -8

Words will not do justice to thoughts.
Catherine, everything that makes you you, will be sooo missed.
Shaira, I am so sorry for your loss

Kerry Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:50:02 GMT -8

Journey on Catherine. Your calm spirited glow will never wither here and I'm pretty sure I can see your aura where you are now.
I am so blessed for having known you.

Shaira words can't express my wishes for you but if you ever need a good 'ol hug I have lots. Thinking good thoughts and sending them to you.

Monica Tue, 08 Dec 2009 22:36:28 GMT -8

Oh Catherine,
You were a bright light indeed - a fire I think. You were a force of hope and kindness. To say that we will miss you seems far too small a phrase for the grief in our hearts. Peace my friend. I will hold you in my heart always. xxoo

Sara Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:28:07 GMT -8

Catherine was my mother's best friend and she quickly became our family. She has such a beautiful spirit and grace and I feel blessed to have had her in my life.

John M Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:57:51 GMT -8

Sorry to not have gotten the chance to meet you. You seem well loved by all. I hope you are able to finish your journey now.

Horace Martin Payne Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:20:22 GMT -8

I will miss you always.

Cheri Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:24:40 GMT -8

Catherine - I miss your wonderful smiles and laughter. This place will not be the same without you.

Sharka Zarsky Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:30:24 GMT -8

We have been together for each other at 3Bridges for 15 long years adn yet it seems too short. We hugged, smiled adn leaned on each other in the time of need. It is hard for me, Catherine, to let you go as you journey on. You brightened my life and I thank you for it....

Shaira, words cannot express my pain...

Tami Starlight Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:55:39 GMT -8

Profoundly touched.

My condolences to the family and friends of Catherine. Shaira, I just read many of the postings and I am crying tears of joy and loss. You have my energy blessings.

I am rather still in shock myself.

Catherine touched me greatly over the few years I did know her professionally and personally. If I ever had a woman I would be proud to be like - it is Catherine.

Fully agree with much of the sentiments posted by others here.

She is with us all & her spirit is on it's next journey.

Thought I would end with this sharing of some of my favorite music that connects my soul/spirit to the now as well as the rest of humanity.
(look for it this spring)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33jBWlkY-A8

Fred Samorodin, RPT Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:41 GMT -8

"to us, who but age!"
Fred

Fred Samorodin, RPT Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:12:52 GMT -8

Shaira,
no rehearsals for this stage
to find your feet to stand
Ai, but life--'tis tough
but grand--maybe,
what Catherine's wish
to use who but age!
With you in thoughts!
Fred Samorodin,RPT
Your Singing & Dancing Physio!

Aaron Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:20:46 GMT -8

I've always had a very high and unwavering respect for Catherine. I've cared for her quietly but undoubtedly.

She's been modest and tastefully understated, looking at all that she's accomplished, and I hope she knows how many people she's touched and influenced.

My sincerest condolences to everyone who loves her.

missp Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:01:24 GMT -8

I haven't seen Catherine for years, but remember her kindness, quick wit, and fabulous smile and humour...
Shaira, I am so sorry for your loss..

Teri Elliott Mon, 07 Dec 2009 07:34:52 GMT -8

Shaira
My heart breaks for you. I am so very sorry. I never had the pleasure of meeting Catherine, but I was so happy for you. You so deserved to be happy.

I know there is nothing I can do or say to make things better for you, but please know my thoughts are with you.

luna Mon, 07 Dec 2009 01:15:08 GMT -8

Within the circles of the heart the white bird flies. From life to life she rides the winds, she's never born and never dies. Sweet soul, your journey's just begun. Sweet lover of the light your time has come... Catherine, I sang this song to you yesterday, in a ceremony to honour you, at a sweatlodge, in North Vancouver. We gathered together to speak to/of you, to share our stories of how your beauteous light touched our lives, to shed our tears, chuckle at some memories,offer prayers and songs and a spirit-plate of some of your favourite foods.A very moving ceremony on a cold and clear December day...a beautiful space to honour you, your beauty, your brilliance, your courage, your charisma, your caring and your hard/heart work that clearly has impacted the lives of many. Your light shone bright, Catherine, with your beautiful smile and your blue eyes often a-twinkle. I so very much appreciate your generosity with endearments..... being called "sweetness" and "lovely" surely warmed my heart, at a time when mine was aching and my spirits were sagging. Shaira, my heart is very much with you. May you feel the love of your friends & family enfolding and holding you, as you journey on.

Tina Tsobanis Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:43:50 GMT -8

Catherine was my colleague at Three Bridges and she worked her magic in the office next to mine. I would often hear her distinct laugh through the wall and marvel at her ability to share laughter with those who were suffering. I quickly realized that this was just one of her many gifts. Catherine was so compassionate, accepting, open, encouraging, and out spoken. These were just a few of her incredible attributes. Catherine generously shared her wisdom with all of us at Three Bridges and so, her legacy of compassion and acceptance lives on.

To Shaira - my deepest, most heartfelt condolences. You are in my thoughts.....

SheLa Nefertiti Morrison Sun, 06 Dec 2009 22:19:50 GMT -8

I just met Catherine twice, briefly - but I certainly remember her. She had presence!! My friend Kathy Atkins has told me how beloved Catherine was in various communities and what a legacy of kindness , tolerance, good will, good humor, and love she left. I often wonder why such truly good persons are taken from this realm early...I guess they are needed "somewhere else" - that's the best answer I've come by. But, it doesn't make the news any less painful for those who loved and knew her well. To all of you, I send my deepest sympathy. Catherine lives on in the minds/eyes/hearts of all whom she crossed paths with!

SheLa, Nanaimo, B.C.

SheLa Nefertiti Morrison Sun, 06 Dec 2009 22:18:25 GMT -8

I just met Catherine twice, briefly - but I certainly remember her. She had presence!! My friend Kathy Atkins has told me how beloved Catherine was in various communities and what a legacy of kindness , tolerance, good will, good humor, and love she left. I often wonder why such truly good persons are taken from this realm early...I guess they are needed "somewhere else" - that's the best answer I've come by. But, it doesn't make the news any less painful for those who loved and knew her well. To all of you, I send my deepest sympathy. Catherine lives on in the minds/eyes/hearts of all who she crossed paths with!

SheLa, Nanaimo, B.C.

Anne-Marie Sun, 06 Dec 2009 21:55:30 GMT -8

Although I did not know Catherine directly - our paths fleetingly crossed through mutual friends only one or two times - she did have a direct impact on my life. There are people in my world who would not be here - or would not be whole - had it not been for the warmth, compassion and insighfulness that she brought to her advocacy work.

Catherine, you are an inspiration - and I choose the present tense intentionally. My heart goes out to all those whom Catherine loved and who loved her in return. May you take good care of each other in this time of immeasurable sorrow.

Tyler Bell Sun, 06 Dec 2009 21:22:30 GMT -8

I didn't know Catherine very well, but we'd been singing in a choir together for the past few months. I'm deeply saddened by her passing. She was full of positive energy, and she was rarely without a smile. A real tragedy.