Catharine Read, beloved mother of Nathan and Noah Read, died May 27, 2026, in Victoria after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 74. She lived and died surrounded by the love of her family and many loving friends. Her two sons and dear friend Molly were with her for a peaceful passing.
Catharine was born in Friesland, Netherlands, on May 26, 1952, and grew up in Edmonton, Alberta. She was blessed with 3 sisters: Vera (m. Wayne); Diane and Ingrid (m. Ron) and brother Rick (m. Lynn). She was a devoted aunt to her beloved nieces and nephews. Catharine was a brilliant student, graduating with honours from Queen’s University with an economics degree and a life-long commitment to public service.
Catharine was a senior public sector executive who spent over two decades in high-level roles across British Columbia and the Yukon. In the Yukon she served as the Public Service Commissioner and Deputy Minister of the Executive Council Office. In B.C. she held a variety of Deputy Minister positions and was Chair of the Passenger Transportation Board. Catharine was dedicated to improving the well-being of First Nations and worked to support many First Nations communities across B.C. and the Yukon and on treaty settlements. Caring about all members of society was her greatest source of fulfillment, serving on the boards of Our Place Society and the James Bay Community Project.
The greatest joy of Catharine’s life were her sons, Nathan (m. Sara) and Noah (m. Amy). As a single mother, she raised them to be outstanding young men and fathers themselves to Zane, Summer and Roland. Catharine loved taking her children and grand children on adventures, as well as hosting family dinners.
Catharine will be deeply missed by her sons, grandchildren, and family and many devoted friends and the community of Victoria where she was loved and respected by neighbours and colleagues.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cool Aid Society and/or MAiD House in Victoria, B.C.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens
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Tom Harrington
Nate and Noah my loving sympathy for your loss of a beautiful woman and mother to you both. my partner Dimitri and I were extremely do ond of Catharine. she was a kind, loving soul and she will be missed terribly. my kindest regards to you both and your families. I know she was so happy and proud of you both and your beautiful children.