With very heavy hearts we announce the passing of Erika Cawthra of Fergus. Erika passed away at home surrounded by family on June 5th, 2020, after a hard fought battle with cancer. Erika age 65 leaves behind her loving husband Wayne, their son Mathias (Merin) and daughter Kylene (Jeremy O’Donnel). She was an amazing Grandmother to Kalli and Adam Cawthra and Gage, Gryphon, Ronin, and Maverick O’Donnell. Erika was born on March 26th, 1955 in Langenau Germany, to the late Adam and Eva Schein. She grew up in a close knit family and is survived by brothers Rob (Heather) and Karl Schein (Liz) and sister Rita Lohnes (Randy). Erika was daughter in-law to Mary Gummerson and sister in-law Marlene Van Heusstede (Brian) and Sandra Kelly (Richard Taylor). She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Erika and Wayne Cawthra were married for 46 wonderful years. They lived in Fergus where they proudly raised their two children. There were no strangers in Erika’s life, only friends she has not yet met. She will be missed dearly by all her friends, especially her supportive Gourmet Group of 36 years. Erika was the life of a party, always well dressed and ready to celebrate, bringing laughter, jokes and creating memories for all. Anyone who visited never left hungry. She had a passion to help others and was an active volunteer at Hospice Wellington and New to You in Fergus in support of Grove’s Memorial Hospital. She will be remembered as an amazing dancer, tennis partner and horseshoe champion. She loved to travel and never missed sunsets on the beach (her favourite being Port Elgin). She faced all challenges with a smile and determination to overcome. She loved a good debate, was loyal and loved her family with all her heart. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone she met. The Family would like to thank the Doctors and nurses of Grove’s Memorial Hospital and Grand River Cancer center, the Bayshore nurses (Heather) and Graham Giddy Funeral Home for their care and support. Cremation has already taken place and plans for a Celebration of Life, for this beautiful lady, will be held at a later date. If desired, friends may make memorial donations to Groves Memorial Hospital or charity of your choice. Dearest Erika, Mom and Grandma, We love you forever and always!
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