'Much respected' paediatrician in Harrogate who rose above all the challenges

Kate was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in October 2024.

Treatment was quite limited and failed to have a big impact on her illness.

Despite this Kate continued to enjoy life as much as possible and kept close contact with her family and many friends.

Kate leaves a supportive and loving family; a brother, John, sister-in-law, Liesel, nieces and nephew (Alicia, Max, Lucy and Hope).

Her much-loved three-year-old great nephew, Elwood will miss her.

Her multiple God children show how much she was respected and admired.

She trained as a doctor in the 1970s, when women were in the minority, which presented many challenges.

In typical Kate fashion, she rose above them all.

She was a paediatrician in Harrogate for practically all of her working life, until her retirement in 2013.

Initially working as a Senior House Officer, later a Staff Grade and. finally. Associate Specialist, nothing was ever too much trouble for her patients.

In later years, she developed a special interest in developmental problems.

Here, her dedication to families was most valued.

Even years after retirement, when out and about, we were regularly stopped by grateful families wishing to chat and express their thanks.

Kate was an animal lover, particularly of the feline kind. Her home was their home.

Typically, she welcomed homeless strays and cared for their every need.

She was also a talented seamstress, keen walker and Betty’s frequent attender.

Kate loved many activities and the delights of rural Yorkshire countryside and wildlife.

She will be very much missed.