Our beloved mother, Katarina M Singh, aged 91, passed away peacefully at home near her loved ones on December 27th, 2020. Born in Pepji, Rotuma Pacific Islands on March 7th, 1929.
She witnessed incredible changes to the world over the years. At 91 she was graceful, strong, determined and a fiercely independent woman.
Katarina was a dedicated wife first and foremost to (Johnny) Jagendra Singh. They wed in the summer of 1956 in Suva, Fiji Islands and migrated to British Columbia, Canada in 1975. Our father nick named our mother “Queenie”. This nick name was carried through to her grandchildren and those who were most close to her.
She was the loving & devoted mother of Agsela, Kiti, Rita, Lawrence, Lata, Lance & Michael. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. Katarina was predeceased by her son Andrew and granddaughter Agnes.
Katarina especially loved her role as Nani/ Ma'piag Håni. She was a grandmother to 21, great-grandmother to 49 and a great-great-grandmother to 9 who made up the entirety of her world. She will also be forever remembered and known as a loyal Bhabi, Chotki, Aunty, Mummy and Mami to numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.
We especially would like to thank Uncle Teferi, nephew to Katarina, he called to speak to her in their native language every day. As well as her granddaughter Rachelle, for providing the medical care and compassion that our mother needed during the last year of her life.
Mom’s favorite hobby, besides singing and dancing, was to annoy our father Johnny with her highly skilled knitting needles and crochet hooks. She would knit/crochet for hours, decorating any space that wasn’t covered already or gifting you a timeless piece. She was a master cook in the kitchen. Her favorite ingredient to any recipe that she shared with her grandkids was “LOVE”. Cook with love she always said, it will turn out lovely.
Our mother had a vivacious personality and was world-renowned for her lack of patience, not holding back her opinion and a knack for telling it like it is. She always told you the truth even if it wasn’t what you wanted to hear.
We will always remember our mother’s infectious smile, piercing blue eyes and caring heart.
She will be forever in our hearts and we are in great hopes that she is now reuniting with lost loved ones.
A private cremation was held on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at 1:00pm
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, at this time we will not be having family and friends gather for a memorial service. However, we do plan for a celebration of our mother’s life when Covid-19 related restrictions are lifted. We appreciate you understanding.