May 21, 1954 - Dec. 21, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Kathleen Anne Bell-Irving on Dec. 21, 2024, at the age of 70.
Kathleen (Kathy) was born on May 21, 1954, and dedicated her life to the pursuit of knowledge, compassion and service to others. Graduating from Simon Fraser University with a bachelor of science (B.Sc.) in kinesiology in 1978, she went on to complete her doctor of medicine (M.D.) at Dalhousie University in 1983. Starting her career as a general practitioner, she went on to get further training and specialize in geriatric medicine.
The next chapters of her career entailed a number of fellowships, teaching opportunities and publications on the area of working with elders. She would eventually receive the Awareness to Action Award for outstanding contributions in the field of elder abuse and neglect from the Simon Fraser Gerontology Centre in April 2006.
Her final, and perhaps most inspired, chapter of her medical career came in October 2007 where she initiated B-I Well, a team-based primary care family practice for elders living in their homes. Filling a perceived gap in access to effective treatment for seniors in the North Shore, Kathy and her team not only treated their patients, but also acted as liaisons to the multifaceted health-care facilities that could be found in the North Shore and Metro Vancouver region. She performed these duties devotedly until her retirement.
A highly respected physician, she was admired not only for her expertise and professionalism but also for the warmth and care she extended to her patients, colleagues and community.
Beyond her remarkable career, Kathy was a loving mother, nanna, daughter, sister and friend. She approached life with curiosity, kindness and an unwavering sense of purpose. Her passion for learning, combined with her commitment to helping others, left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Kathy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends and countless lives she touched throughout her career and personal life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society reflecting her lifelong dedication to healing and care.