Former CBC host Cathy Alex, known for her infectious laughter, passion for the outdoors, and dedication to the communities she served, has passed away at the age of 62 after a long battle with multiple myeloma. Originally from Regina, Alex spent her formative years in Guelph, Ontario, where she pursued a degree in human kinetics at the University of Guelph before earning a journalism degree from Carleton University in Ottawa.
Alex’s illustrious 33-year career with CBC Radio took her to various locations across Canada, including Corner Brook, Toronto, Windsor, and Iqaluit, before settling in northwestern Ontario. During her 25-year tenure with CBC Thunder Bay, she held different roles such as editor, producer, reporter, and host.
Throughout her career, Alex covered a diverse range of stories and received recognition from the Association of Ontario Midwives in 2018 for her exceptional reporting on midwifery issues in the province. Colleagues fondly remember her as a seasoned professional with a remarkable on-air presence and a wealth of knowledge behind the scenes.
Gord Ellis, a longtime colleague at CBC Thunder Bay, reminisced about Alex’s sense of humor and ability to bring genuine laughter to their work together. Her obituary highlights her love for outdoor activities, including camping, canoeing, and nature walks, as well as her commitment to community service through various initiatives like organizing a reading of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” and volunteering for the Terry Fox Run.
Survived by her husband, two daughters, mother, sisters, and extended family, Alex’s passing has deeply impacted her loved ones and the community. A memorial service is scheduled for January 14 in Thunder Bay, where donations in her memory can be made to Myeloma Canada or the Northern Cancer Fund. The family expressed gratitude for the support received during Alex’s illness and emphasized the importance of cherishing the memories created during her year of remission.
