Kaya Melanie Firth

Kaya Firth Kaya was the firstborn child of Duncan and Jennifer and being raised by very young parents made the family grow together.
Unconcerned with traditional norms, Kaya was raised to question and to make her own decisions. She adored her brothers Jackson and Isaac and considered Christopher her third brother. They always played together as children, often with Kaya making the calls. As they grew up they became close friends and relied on each other for insight and support.
Kaya was inspired by nature, loved the family cottage and took every opportunity to be out on the lake. She grew up on and around the water and found peace paddling the kayak or canoe. She could hold her own behind the speedboat too, either slalom skiing or wakeboarding with the boys. Kaya loved working with children and was a counsellor for Town of Halton Hills Recreation programs, going on to work in an Administrative role there. She was held in high regard for her enthusiasm, infectious smile, organizational skills and passion for her role. Kaya was raised in love and chose to keep deep personal relationships with the people she loves. Kaya knew her mind and, especially over the past few years she found her voice. She was encouraged by mentors who saw her potential and talent and helped reflect it back to her. In particular, the staff at The Ontarion, the University of Guelph student newspaper where she was an editor, helped her to hone her gift for words and start to share it with the world. She said of the staff there: "I have found my people". Kaya was treasured by her large extended family and the Brownlee family who considered her one of their own. She was lucky enough to find her soulmate at such a young age and she and Zachary shared a deep commitment and love for each other that was beyond their years. She will be deeply missed by all who know and love her.
Friends will be received at the J.S. Jones & Son Funeral Home on Monday February 29th from 2-5 pm. A celebration of Kaya's life will held Tuesday March 1st at 10:30 am. Cremation has taken place. Firth, Kaya Melanie - Suddenly as the result of an accident on Sunday February 21, 2016, with her boyfriend Zach Sutherland. Kaya, in her 22nd year, beloved daughter of Jennifer and Duncan. Cherished sister of Jackson and Isaac. Loved granddaughter of Lorne and Kathy MacLeod, Norman and Norma Firth and Jim and Dianne Lyon. Dear niece of Catherine (John) McPhail, Robin (John) Thompson, Duff Lyon, Heather Lyon (Matt Sullivan), Sharon (Ewan) Thomson and Janice (Scott) Whittal. Kaya will be sadly missed by many cousins and friends. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the ALS Society or the Terry Fox Foundation.
MEMORIAL NOTICE Due to the outpouring of emotions since the tragic accident that resulted in the loss of Kaya Firth and Zach Sutherland the Terra Cotta Community Center is hosting a gathering on Saturday, February 27th between 4 - 6 PM. Everyone is welcome to attend and share their support and draw solace from one and another during this difficult time.
There will be Spiritual and Community leaders in attendance to lead us through prayers and offer their support. Two separate condolence books will be available which will be passed onto the Sutherland and Firth families.