Obituary of Katherine Linda Baird

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The family of Katherine Linda Baird (McMinniman) sadly share the news of her passing at Hospice Fredericton on Saturday, December 20th, 2025, after a brief but brave battle with her health. “Kate” as most knew her, was born in Fredericton to the late Don and Dorothy Kathleen (Tapley) McMinniman on April 22nd, 1950. 

Kate is survived by her husband of 54 years Dennis, her two children, Michael Baird and Krista (Jeremy) Cook and her two beloved granddaughters, Avery and Lauren Cook. She also leaves behind her brother, Wayne McMinniman and sister, Jill (Carl) Kierstead; sisters-in-law, Jessie McMinniman, Susan McMinniman and Faye (Dale Banks); many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she is predeceased by her brothers, Carl, Brian, George, David and Peter McMinniman; sisters, Myrna(Alton) Henry, Joan (Steve) Doyle and Mary Hogan; sister-in-law, Donna McMinniman; brother-in-law, Peter Baird and son-in-law, Alain Baird.

Kate graduated from nursing school in 1971 and worked as a registered nurse for 39 years, retiring from the DECRH in 2010 to look after her first granddaughter, Avery. She did the same for her second granddaughter Lauren, finding great joy in the precious moments spent with them. 

Many wonderful memories were made with family each summer at Grand Lake. Kate also cherished her visits with Michael in Ontario, her shopping trips with Krista and her vacations to Florida and PEI. She could always be found choosing just the right spot to watch her grandkids at their sports games and was one of their biggest cheerleaders; be it in the rink, at the ball field or on the court. She enjoyed her daily “Tim’s” coffee dates and appreciated the many warm friendships she made there over the years. 

The family would like to extend their deepest thanks for the tender care she received during these last few weeks at the DECRH, the Saint John Regional and Hospice Fredericton. She was surrounded by teams of angels and for that, we are forever grateful. 

Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026  from 1-3 pm from the Salvation Army Fredericton Community Church; followed by a Celebration of Life Ceremony at 3 pm with Majors Kirk and Sharon MacLeod and Majors Dan and Renee Dearing officiating. The service will also be available through www.yorkfh.com (Link at top of the obituary). A reception will follow the service.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice Fredericton (Palliative Care Resource Network Inc.) or the Salvation Army Community Church. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com