Cathy Marie

Wichinski

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Cathy Marie Wichinski (nee McLean), who passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on October 31, 2026, at the age of 67, following a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Known affectionately as Kiki, a nickname lovingly given to her by her first nephew, Joe, Kiki was born and raised in Sydney, Cape Breton.

She was predeceased by her parents, James and Catherine McLean, and her parents-in-law, Kizik and Hazel Wichinski.

Kiki leaves behind her loving husband of 42 years, Don; their daughter, Amanda Gomez (Tanner); and their three cherished grandchildren, Estrella, Nelo, and Oakley.

She is also survived by her siblings, Ernest McLean (Cathy), Ann Pettipas (Kenneth), and Robert McLean. She will also be lovingly remembered by her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Diane, Norman, John, Sandy, and Keith.

Kiki leaves behind many nieces and nephews, including Joe (Cyndi) and Paul (Tasia) McLean, Robert and Aaron Leaman, and Logan and Tanner McLean. She will also be remembered by her nieces and nephews on the Wichinski side, Ryan, Jason, Michelle, April, Shane, and many others, along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and a wonderful circle of close friends.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Cape Breton Regional Hospital, including the Emergency Department and the various units where Kiki received care during her stays. A special thank-you goes to the staff at the Cape Breton Cancer Centre, Palliative Care Cape Breton, and the VON, as well as her family physician, Dr. Glen Worth, and all the amazing doctors and nurses Kiki had the privilege of meeting along the way. Your kindness, compassion, support, and dedication meant so much to Kiki and her family during an incredibly difficult time. Your care will never be forgotten.

Kiki was one of Jehovah's Witnesses, and her faith was an important part of her life. She loved sharing with others the wonderful promises Jehovah has given us in the Bible and the hope of a beautiful future. One of her cherished scriptures was Revelation 21:3, 4, which speaks of a time when suffering, pain, and death will be no more.

Her family and friends will hold close their memories of Kiki, her love, and the special place she held in their lives. Though she will be deeply missed, the hope for the future she held so dear brings comfort in knowing that this is not goodbye forever.

In accordance with Kiki's wishes, cremation has taken place.

The funeral will be held on November 14th, 2026, at 3pm AST at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 36 Quilty Avenue North Sydney.