With heavy hearts—but no shortage of memories and a few well-timed laughs—the family of Catherine May Muldoon announces her peaceful passing on July 28, 2025, at Michael
Garron Hospital in her hometown of Toronto. She was 81 years old.
Catherine was a lifelong educator. As an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher— most notably at Seneca College—she spent decades helping newcomers to Canada find their voice. Her students often arrived nervous and uncertain, but left her classroom with confidence, skill, and a better understanding of English idioms (some of which she may or
may not have invented on the spot).
She is survived by her loving husband, Franz; her children, Chris (Jenni) and Elizabeth; and her granddaughters, Molly and Maeve. She was predeceased by her mother, Edna (1995);
her father, William (1964); and her beloved sister Peggy (1996), whose antics were often the source of legendary family stories.
Catherine adored dogs of all shapes and sizes and had a keen interest in horse racing in her younger days—especially when the horses cooperated with her “betting instincts”, which, she would finally admit, they did only sporadically. She loved a tall glass of wine, the Blue Jays and a good laugh. A private service will be held in the Fall of 2025, with interment to follow at Parklawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Toronto Humane Society — because if there’s a dog heaven (and she believed there is), Catherine’s already handing out treats.Online condolences may be placed at www.aftercare.org.
