Pye, Katherine Phyllis
Pye, Katherine Phyllis (née Rongits)
February 17, 1933 - September 9, 2026Peacefully and surrounded by family, Katherine passed away at Hospice Wellington, in Guelph, Ontario, at the age of 93.
She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by her best friend and husband of 65 years, Philip; children: Anna (Shawn), and Greg (Bonnie); and grandchildren Melissa (Isidor), Maggie, Charlie, and Charlie's mom Jackie. Katherine was predeceased by her parents Henry and Wilma, and by her beloved brother Henry "Hank" (Wendy). Siblings, Grace (Don), Irene (Jim), and Robert "Bob" (Mary), and nieces and nephews will fondly remember "Kay" for her smile and her delicious cabbage rolls.
Katherine's greatest joy was her family, and she was a loving and steadfast presence in the lives of her children and grandchildren. They will miss her immeasurably, along with the unconditional love, and support she gave so freely.
She will be remembered in London, Ontario for many roles: member of St George's Catholic Church, former Bell Telephone Operator, Simpons Store Clerk, Registered Nursing Assistant for 25 years at McCormick Home, and Byron "Avon Lady". Many in Byron will recall seeing her taking her daily long walks into her 90s.
Katherine was an avid runner, having taken up running in her late 50s. With the support of her husband, Phil, and the local running community, Katherine competed in many races from 5k to marathons, often placing first in her age group. She won first place in the Chicago Marathon in her 65-69 age group in 1999. She qualified for and raced in four Boston Marathons in the early 2000s, achieving 3rd place in her 70-79 age category in 2003.
Katherine and Philip recently moved to Abour Trails in Guelph, where Katherine will be fondly remembered as "The Dancing Queen".
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Guelph General Hospital and Hospice Wellington for the compassionate care and support they provided to Katherine and her family.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations to Hospice Wellington https://www.hospicewellington.org/donate would be appreciated by the family.
