SCHNAIDER, Katherine “Kay” Schnaider
June 4, 2026Peacefully passed away on June 4, 2026, just shy of her 97 th birthday, at Hillsdale Estates.
Beloved mother of Sharon Avery (Ron). Loving Nana of Mark (Erin) and Brent (Trish) and Kit Kat Nana of Madelyn, Zach, and Bennett.
Predeceased by her brothers Jim, Joe, and Dennis, and by her sisters Stella and Mary.
Kay will be sadly missed by her nieces, nephews, godsons, and friends.
Born in Findlater, Saskatchewan, she moved with her family at the age of four to a farm in Bexley, ON, where she spent her childhood. She later attended high school in Oshawa, where the foundations of a life filled with friendship and determination were formed.
In 1952, she married Peter. Together they shared 41 years of marriage, building a loving home and raising their cherished daughter, Sharon.
Throughout her working years, she held positions at the Genosha Hotel and with Bell Canada, before establishing a successful career as a bookkeeper. She worked at Cliff Mills Motors and later at Marks and McNeely Law Office, where her professionalism, reliability and attention to detail earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike. She remained there until her final retirement.
A talented seamstress, she spent many hours sewing and knitting in her younger years, creating beautiful clothing with skill and care. She loved bowling and golfing, volunteered generously at the Oshawa Hospital, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. She had a deep love of dancing to country music, and would often be found on the dance floor, enjoying every opportunity to dance and celebrate with family and friends.
As an avid traveler, she explored the world, creating countless memories and stories along the way.
She will be remembered for her vibrant personality and contagious laugh, her kindness, her strong work ethic, and her ability to make every gathering a little brighter. She never shied away from a party, treasured the company of others, and lived life to its fullest.
Kay’s family would like to especially thank all the staff & Dr. Dhillon for the excellent care provided to her during the last 5 years she resided at Lavender Lane.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. at Armstrong Funeral Home (124 King St. E., Oshawa). A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church. Urn interment to follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Hearth Place.
Online condolences may be shared at www.armstrongfh.ca
- Location: DURHAM REGION, ON
- Funeral Home: ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME
