Keith Shipley Cation
It is with great sadness that the family of Keith Shipley Cation, announces his passing on August 29, 2020 at the Grand River Hospital. He was in his 74th year.
Keith was surrounded by his family at the time of his peaceful passing. He has ventured off to a better place, welcomed by loved ones who have gone before him. A place where there’s a warm cup coffee or an ice cold beer, along with a piece of black licorice. A place where he’s healthy and strong again, ready to solve all the world’s problems or repair all that is broken, as he did when he was with us on earth.
Keith was born in Port Credit, Ontario, on April 3, 1947, however was raised in Galt. He was the son of Rena and Harry Cation, (who have predeceased him) and older brother of Kimberly. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Margaret (nee: Williamson) and children: Rhonda (Gerry); and Derek (Kimberley). He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Liam; Michael; and Sarah. The passing of Keith will also be felt by his: sister; brother-in-law; sisters-in-law; many nieces, nephews and friends. Although Keith was a Dad to two children, he was a father figure to many others over the years.
Keith raised his family in Cambridge, and enjoyed a career as a machinist at Babcock and Wilcox Canada for over 40 years. He took pride in having what he called “a machinists eye”, for precision and accuracy. Often, Keith was recognized for his expertise in the field, and was awarded for his contributions to the industry.
Seeking a change, Keith and Margaret relocated to Ayr, in 2000, where he enjoyed a slower pace and all that a smaller community had to offer.
Keith was a ‘hand’s on’, ‘jack of all trades’ type of guy. He was an expert of ‘little known facts’, was quick-witted and had a dry sense of humour. As one of his grandchildren’s biggest supporters, he always reminded them of the three most important things: do your best; never give up; and have fun. These lessons will serve them well in life.
In 2004, he purchased a rundown cottage in Key Harbour, located on the northeast corner of Georgian Bay. With a vision and a lot of hard work, he built his family a haven, where fishing, swimming and sitting on the deck relaxing became a favourite pastime.
Following his retirement from Babcock’s in 2007, Keith quickly sought out his ‘second career’, as the local ‘know it all’ at the Home Hardware store in Ayr. For almost 10 years he enjoyed chatting with the locals and offering advice to customers.
Keith loved travelling and often boasted about spending his children’s inheritance on cruises and travelling to various locations throughout the world. He was able to enjoy these trips with his wife, and other friends and family.
At the time of his passing, the family envisioned Keith, steering his boat westward, towards the setting sun, which glistens like millions of diamonds over Georgian Bay. It really was his little piece of heaven. We see him with a big grin on his face, sunglasses dangling from his lips, and a hint of mischief playing in his steely-blue eyes.
The family will be hosting a celebration of Keith’s life on Saturday, September 19, 2020 from 1-4 p.m. (tentative rain date for Sunday, September 20, 2020). In accordance with social distancing regulations, a visitation procession will take place in the backyard at 37 Douglas Drive, Ayr, Ontario. Please bring a written copy of your favourite story about Keith to share with the family, in lieu signing a book of condolences. Guests will be provided with a written copy of our tribute to Keith. Memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Lung Association or the Humane Society of your choice.
Online condolences and donations may be arranged through www.wmkippfuneralhome.com or by contacing Wm. Kipp 519-632-8228.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Keith Shipley Cation Saturday August 29th 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Ayr, Province: Ontario