March 13, 1946 November 1, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of the heart and soul of our family, Katherine Ann Millman… beloved wife, loving mother, “Nanny” to ten grandchildren, businesswoman, Blue Jays and Maple Leafs fan, lover of nature and animals, and beloved, loyal friend.
Kathy passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on November 1, 2024
— All Saints’ Day, a poignant and special symbol of Kathy’s true being.
Born March 13, 1946, in London, Ontario, to the late Francis Palmer Leahy and Margaret Ann Elizabeth (Blay), Kathy is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, John; son, David (Maureen); daughter, Kate (Bob); son, Jonathan (Erin); son, Robert (Marissa); and grandchildren, Bobby, Lily, Eloise (Kate’s children); Pippa, Emmie, Peter (Jonathan’s children); and Abby, Holden, Nora, and Franklin (Robert’s children).
After receiving her early education in London, Kathy graduated near the top of her class in physiotherapy at the University of Toronto. She became a skilled physiotherapist who loved working with children. Early in her career, while working at Children’s Hospital in London, Ontario, she caught the eye of a young medical student, John Millman, who knew within days that he wanted to marry her.
Dr. John and Kathy were married in 1969, and shortly afterward moved to Guelph, Ontario, to begin their family story. As a mother, she poured her attention, efforts, and affection into creating a happy home and a wonderful family life — supporting their four children in all aspects of their lives, careers, and adventures.
Kathy inherited her keen business acumen from her father, Frank Leahy, which allowed her to successfully serve for over 30 years as VP of Finance at WellServe Healthcare Management, a medical services company she founded with her husband, John. Kathy was the foundation of that business, loved by all its 60+ employees, many of whom remained with the company for decades.
Kathy spent her retirement years between two places she adored, Corwhin Farm, and their beautiful cottage on the sandy shores of Lake Huron in Southampton, Ontario, typically surrounded by family and friends. She also enjoyed many adventures with John and friends.
Kathy was a beautiful human being who exemplified kindness, empathy, and grace. She brought happiness to so many throughout her life, approaching every day with a warm smile and a friendly hello to everyone she encountered. She will be deeply missed by her family, a close group of dear friends (including the Bon Appetit Culinary Group), and her beloved poodle, Sadie.
There will be a funeral celebration for Kathy on November 25, 2024, at 2 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church in Elora, Ontario. Reception to follow.
If desired, donations can be made in memory of Kathy to the charity of your choice or to the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada. Online condolences and arrangements can be made at www. gilbertmacintyreandson.com.