February 15, 1954 – January 15, 2026 

Katherine “Kathy” Ackles passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, British Columbia. Kathy was born Katherine Edwina Wirth on February 15, 1954, in Nipawin, Saskatchewan. Soon after, she moved with her family to Kamloops, a place she would come to love deeply and call home. 

Kathy embraced everything about Kamloops — the community, the people, and the life she built there. As a teenager, Kathy met the love of her life, Allan Ackles. Their love story began at her job at the A&W drive-in, where Allan famously courted her with his signature order of a “Papa Burger with extra pickles, hold the onions.” Their connection was instant and enduring. They married in 1973 and shared a beautiful life together filled with love, laughter, and devotion. 

Together, they raised two children, Kyle and Kimberly, in the Kamloops community they cherished. Kathy was a devoted mother who poured her heart into her family. Later in life, she found her greatest joy in her grandchildren — Bryn, Lynden, Jarvis, and Cedar — who truly became her entire world. Her love for them was endless and unmistakable. 

Kathy was an avid volunteer in the community and always generous with her time. She was a volunteer with the Legion for over 50 years. Kathy loved camping and was always happiest outside in the fresh air. 

Kathy and Allan attended the Merritt Mountain Music Festival for 17 years, treasuring the time spent there with friends and family. Kathy was also a dedicated football fan, rarely missing an opportunity to watch Monday Night Football. 

Kathy was predeceased by her beloved husband and soulmate, Allan; her mother, Kay; and her sister, Bernice. She leaves behind her son Kyle Ackles (Nikki); her daughter Kimberly Fisher (Chris); her treasured grandchildren Bryn, Lynden, Jarvis, and Cedar; her brother Stanley; and her nieces Genevieve, Evette, and Melissa. Kathy also leaves behind countless friends — many who became like family — reflecting a lifetime rich in connection, kindness, and friendship. Kathy will be missed by all who knew her. 

While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing she is now reunited with Allan, back in the arms of the man she loved so dearly. 

A service to honour Kathy’s life will be held on April 24 at 2:00 p.m. at Kamloops United Church. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and celebrate a life lived with love, warmth, and grace. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the new Kamloops BC Cancer Centre. https://bccancerfoundation.com/donations/new-kamloops-cancer-center/ 

• Date : 2026-01-15
• Location : Kamloops