It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kathy Cepuran Joanisse on Saturday May 1, 2021. Kathy left us peacefully, while holding the love of her life’s hand, after a sudden illness. Beloved wife of Marc Joanisse, they were a few months shy of celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary.
Kathy was born to Joe and Annie Cepuran on April 3,1968. She will always be known as the adored baby sister of Carl (Gail) and Eddie (Mary Jo). Kathy was loved by so many, including Jean and the late Jackie Joanisse, the late Bob Joanisse and the late Annette Badour (Rodney). Kathy will be forever missed by her nieces and nephews who loved her beyond words. Kathy leaves behind many cousins here and in Croatia. She loved all of her friends, especially the “RM Girls” as they held a special spot in her heart.

Kathy spent her working career as a pharmacy technician in local pharmacies where she served many people throughout the years. She was a proud Schumacher girl who truly loved her home town and Croatian heritage. She enjoyed travelling with Marc and together they explored many places. Kathy loved to garden and took pride in her beautiful flowers planted in the summer. She loved sharing the vegetables that she grew with others.

Kathy was a true Northerner and always cherished the special times she spent at Keefer Lake where she learned to fish, light a bonfire, pick blueberries and snowmobile. It is also the place where she first met Marc, when she was 17 years old, and always smiled when she told the story of their first encounter.

Kathy was honest and genuine. Often reminding us that her favourite song was, “Humble and Kind.” Kathy loved when her family would visit and enjoyed sharing tasty treats with them, often mixing up an “Aunt Kathy Special”.

Over the last few weeks Kathy accepted her suffering without one complaint. She was a strong and tough Croatian girl who reassured all of us that everything would be okay. We take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace and was greeted by so many who have gone before her, including her parents. We know that her mom and dad have their arms wrapped tight around her.

To honour Kathy, please take a moment to be grateful for the special people in your life. Tell someone you love them today. Don’t wait.

Thank you to the team from Bayshore who provided much comfort to Kathy, especially, Amy, Brittney and Marnie. To Dr. Adesanya and Dr. Hopkins for their continued care and compassion shown. Heartfelt appreciation to Kim Mahon Bazinet for being a true friend, right until the end. Gratitude to Chrissy and to Joanna from Hospice for helping us once again.

In light of the current pandemic restrictions, a private family service will be held. Her celebration of life will be livestreamed. Remembrance donations to the Croatian Society Schumacher on their website (croatiansocietyschumacher.com) or directly with the funeral home. The funeral arrangements have been entrusted to MIRON-WILSON FUNERAL HOME, Cremation and Reception Centre, 150 Balsam St. S., Timmins. To order flowers or condolences, please visit www.mironwilson.com.

Rest easy Kathy. You fought the good fight. You finished the race. You kept the faith.