Obituary of Catherine Rounsville

The family of Catherine (Katie) Rounsville is saddened to announce the passing of their beloved mother on March 8, 2023, at the age of 93.  Katie’s departure will leave a large and lasting void in the lives of her family, and for many who knew her.

Katie was born in Daysland, Alberta, on May 6, 1929 and moved to Cranbrook when she was twelve years of age.  She excelled in all areas of her education and was awarded the City of Cranbrook trophy upon graduation in 1947.  She aspired to be a teacher, and received her teaching certificate in 1949. Years later, Katie returned to university to complete her Education Degree.

September, 1949, was the start of Katie’s teaching career in Yahk BC, simultaneously teaching a number of grades in a one room school house.  She continued her career at Central, Amy Woodland, and Tenth Avenue Schools in Cranbrook. At Tenth Avenue, Katie was the vice principal, librarian, primary and student services teacher.  During her career she touched the lives of hundreds of students. They would approach her decades after being in her class, and comment on how much Katie meant to them as a teacher. Even after all those years, Katie would typically be able to discern which child was behind that much older face when they approached her.

While in Yahk, Katie met her future husband Ralph (Bud) Rounsville. They married in 1952, and were blessed to share close to sixty years together until his passing.  Together, they loved tending their garden and flowerbeds in Cranbrook.  However, that love of gardening sometimes was secondary to their time spent at Kootenay Lake over a fifty year timeframe.

Katie was always busy, but when she had time, she enjoyed beating Bud at cribbage, her weekly bridge games, dancing and being a member of the Lady Lions.   She was a great cook and many were treated to her meals and baking.  Katie loved to walk, and could be seen around town on her daily power walk.

Katie was predeceased by her husband Bud, parents Michael and Anne Stayura, and brother  Albert Stayura.  She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Christine (Ken) Olson, grandsons Tyler (Lauren), Brett (Leanne), son Dennis (Nella), granddaughter Danielle (Ian) and grandson Scott (Sarah).  Her pride and joy were her four great granddaughters and one great grandson. Katie is also survived by her sisters Jean (Paul) Dureski, Mary Perosa, and many nieces and nephews. 

There will be a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Katie’s name can be made to the East Kootenay Foundation for Health or the charity of your choice