Obituary of Kathleen Marie Van De Wynckel

Van De Wynckel: Kathleen Marie (née Van Meighem) -

Kathleen passed away peacefully on April 14, 2024  at St. Andrew's Residence in Chatham at the age of 97.  Born in Wheatley, ON, July 5 1926, daughter of the late Prosper and Rosalie Van Meighem.

Kathleen will be joining her beloved husband Andy.   Married in 1950, she kept her lifelong partner for 74 years, missing him dearly everyday since his death in 2013.

Loving mother to daughter Rosey and Bill Bourne and son Rudy Van De Wynckel.  Her two cherished grandsons Tory and Andrew (A.J.) McAlorum.  A.J. and wife Nancy gave her two great grandchildren Grace and Aiden. She never thought she would be so lucky to be a great Nanny.

Kathleen is survived by sister-in-laws Annette LeClair, Alice Vanek and Georgette Van De Wynckel.  Predeceased family; a sister Isabelle and Morris DeDecker, brothers in law Oscar LeClair, Robert Vanek, Rene, John, Richard Van De Wynckel.  

Kathleen and Andy were lifelong farmers in Raleigh township.  Living on their farm by the lake since 1957.  She could bake and sew and knit and make anything but Gardening was her passion.  Flowers and vegetables.  She could grow anything, often bringing home a piece of a flower or root in her pocket from an unbeknownst garden.   In retirement they travelled.  Kathleen read about every place they visited by researching articles in  National Geographic.  Once even telling an agricultural tour host in California that she had read his article and he shockingly replied "yes that was my writing"!  For many years they belonged to the Kent County Street Rods where every summer weekend created wonderful friendships.

In 2017 Kathleen moved to St. Andrew's Residence with Dr. James Wheeler's medical care.   Unwillingly yes, not wanting to leave her farm and gardens.  But within a very short time she became so comfortable and thankful for the kind, caring, compassionate staff that she reminded us constantly that "no one received better care than her".  During her stay she listened to over 500 audio books, thanks to Michelle and CNIB.

The family wishes to extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. James Wheeler, the amazing staff at St. Andrew's Residence, Chatham Kent Library Home Service Michelle,  Bayshore Nurse Shayna. VON PSW's, and to family and friends who visited her.  Your kindness will never be forgotten.

A private family and friend Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary's Church, Blenheim on Friday April 19, 2024 at 11:00 am. 

Donations would be welcome in Kathleen's memory Online or In-person at McKinlay Funeral Homes to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the St. Andrew's Residence Foundation or the Literary Angels Chatham Kent Public Library.  

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519-676-3451