Death Notice
It is with great sadness, that we announce the passing of KATHERINE « Kathy » DIANE OBRIGHT in her 61st year. As in life, Kathy approached her final short illness with optimism and courage. She died quietly at home surrounded by loving family members and her pet family.
Kathy was predeceased by her father, Frederick Obright, her mother Beatrice Sidebottom nee Obright nee Tackaberry. She is survived by brothers John (Anne) Obright, Doug (Jerrilyn) Obright, sister Marie Obright, stepbrother Dave (Donna) Sidebottom, stepsister Peggy Sidebottom, two nephews, two nieces and nine great nieces and nephews.
Kathy was born in Chesley, Ontario. She grew up in Owen Sound where she attended both public and high school. Her love of sports and interest in athletic injuries attracted her to the Kinesiology program at the University of Waterloo. From there she was accepted into the Bachelor of Science Program in the School of Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto where she graduated Cum Lauda and was the School’s « Gold Medal » Winner.
She took up clinical practice in London at Victoria Hospital with her primary focus being out-patient orthopaedics. After 4 years of practice she started volunteering time in the orthopaedic courses at Western University and eventually went on to do her Master’s of Physical Therapy Degree in the School of Physical Therapy at Western.
In 1989, she accepted a full-time position in the School of Physical Therapy where she taught for the next 30 years. During this time, Kathy received over 10 prestigious teaching awards, including the Edgar J. Pleva Award, Western’s highest teaching award, and the Ontario Physiotherapy Association’s Education Award. Kathy was granted Professor Emerita status upon her retirement last June.
While most of Kathy’s energy was dedicated to her academic responsibilities and giving her best to her students, she was also an avid cyclist and pet lover. In both her private and academic life she gave freely of her time and resources wherever she saw a need.
A private burial service will be conducted with the immediate family at the graveside.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date when coronavirus restrictions are eased.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences can be made to the family through the Harris Funeral Home website.
For those wishing to make a charitable donation, please consider the Dr.
Deborah Lucy Scholarship Fund through Western University, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Ontario Humane Society or the charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank Dr. George Kim and Nurse Practitioner Joan Mitchell for their amazing compassion and support in caring for Kathy.
2020
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Katherine Obright 2020..
Décès pour la Ville:London, Province: Ontario