Peacefully surrounded by family on June 24, Katia gained her wings. An inspiration of independent fierce strength, will, determination and passion who held nothing back and was filled with love, smiles and laughter. Katia managed the unimaginable, despite a lifetime of disability and chronic pain, travelling the globe visiting Africa, Europe, The Middle East and North America, owning her own home, learning to drive, dedicating herself as a social worker at the Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital and forging lasting friendships throughout her life. Katia always provided unending love for her family, friends and cats (“The Boys”). Katia had a zest for life and passion for reading, learning of other cultures, history, cooking, meditation, gardening and animals. When there is rain there is always sunshine somewhere to create a rainbow and on this day it was accomplished as she smiles from above.

Predeceased by her father Eldon Pattyson (Pat) Black, she is survived by her mother Francine Black, her sisters Tina Smith (married to the late Bill Smith), Claudia Black (married to Ron Dargy) and brother Charles Black (married to Timah Black). She will be greatly missed by her nieces and nephew Amanda Smith-Kennedy, Duncan Smith, Tania Dargy, Sabrina Dargy, Maraika Black and Kira Black, her great-nieces and great-nephew Alexandra, Liam and Scarlett as well as many dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa on Monday, July 2 at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to visit from 10 a.m. There will be a private burial.

The family thanks the extraordinary care given at the Montfort Hospital and the Ottawa Heart Institute. Donations in Katia’s memory may be made to the St. Joe’s Women’s Centre (www.stjoeswomenscentre.org), to the Furry Tales Cat Rescue (www.furry-tales.ca) or to any charities helping newcomers and immigrants.