Catherine Ann Hamilton

Catherine Hamilton (aka Cathe, Cass, Cassie) left us on June 27, 2026 at NVRH, following a prolonged illness and a brief hospitalization. Her daughter and son-in-law were by her side as her journey ended.

Cass was born October 20, 1960 in Seattle, Washington to Hugh and Janyce (Bucklin) Gourlay. Cass, the only girl, was sandwiched between two brothers, Gord – the elder, and Rob – the younger. She generally enjoyed being a sister to these two, and loved them unconditionally; even when they were driving her nuts with the constant drumming and guitar music that filled the Costa Avenue home of their teen years.

Cass was an accomplished pianist herself and loved music, spending many happy hours attending concerts, hanging out at venues where her brothers’ many bands over the years were playing, and dancing…always dancing, earning the nickname “Katrine, Katrine, the Dancing Machine.” There are allegations she was once spotted dancing on the bar at the old Wooden Horse, although this occurred prior to the rise of mobile phones, it can only be confirmed by her lifelong BFF, Tracey. Cass was also proficient in Highland dancing, which included Scottish Sword dancing and Ballet in her youth.

A very artistic person, Cass created beautiful crafts, paintings, quilting and sewing projects. She spent many years participating in shows, and making gifts for friends and family. Cass worked tending bar in many local establishments. She returned to college when her daughter was five to pursue her interests in Psychology and Human Services. She graduated in 1991 after having been named Lyndon State College’s Adult Student of the Year. Cass found work in the school system and was always proud of the difficult work she did later for Northeast Kingdom Human Services.

Cass had numerous health issues throughout her life, and fought cancer for decades. Though she suffered much and dealt with a lot of pain and discomfort, she always carried herself with grace, and remarkably never complained. Cass remained positive and upbeat, and had a bottomless amount of patience and compassion for the people in her life. She was so strong, so determined, so steadfast in her conviction that she would not give in to the blight the cancer was on her life. If you were her friend or family member, you know that she would fight for you to the end and be your biggest champion. Though she was small in stature, her heart and attitude were enormous.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Cass’ incredible health care team, which included Elaine Robinson, Jess Mccleod, Dr Joyce Dobbertin and Brandy Newland.

Cass was very intelligent, had a razor-sharp wit and fantastic sense of humor, which never waned even during her lowest periods. You could always count on her to find the comedy in even the smallest moments and her laugh was contagious. 

Cass survived by her daughter, Chelsea (son-in-law, Johah Pratt), a beloved grandson, Dylan Gonyer, her mother Jan Gourlay, brothers Gord (Ana) and Rob (Jody) Gourlay, a niece Ella (Nolan) Chretien, their son’s Colton and Carter, nephews Ian and Eben Gourlay, and her BFF Tracey Morrow. Cass was predeceased by her father in 2007 as well as her life partner, Frank Hamilton in 2024, after 35 years together; much of it spent on a peaceful hill in Newark.

At Cass’ request, there will be no public services. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her name to Caledonia Home Health and Hospice.

Cass. You will be missed by so many. And that’s a BIG 10-4. Over and out good buddy.

Memories and condolences may be shared with family at saylesfh.com.