Remembering Katharine McCoy (ex Curtis)

18 Dec 1956 – 20th Feb 2024

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It was sad to hear of the passing of old friend and colleague Katharine McCoy, known to many of us oldies in the industry as Kate Curtis, who passed away suddenly on Tuesday 20th February 2024 in Greymouth Hospital after suffering a cardiac incident.

I remember when I was looking at buying Filmcrews back in 1997, and went to what was the Tuatara Bar on Ponsonby Road with the current owner for a debrief. As I walked up to the bar, there was a woman sitting there who turned around and after hearing our chatter, introduced herself to me as Production Manager Katharine “with an A” Curtis. She gave me some advice, and told me that should I ever need support, help, or advice she wanted to be my ‘go to’ person to contact. Contact her I certainly did. Many times.

She always went over and above the call of duty, when ever I had a migraine she would drop her personal plans and drive the many kilometres from her farm in Patamahoe to the city to cover the phones in my office, as well as stepping in for weeks at a time if I ever had a holiday or had sick days, or when I had my daughter. I owe her a lot for that.

We had a lot of laughs, and certainly shared some tears over the years. She was my mentor, and my friend, a force to be reckoned with, and a great person to have batting in my corner. I will be forever grateful for her guidance and kindness. She was a truly unselfish soul, and I shall miss her for that.

Sioux

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Vale Kate

Kate lived a full life.

Not only a successful Line Producer in film, and a Farmer; she was also creative. From sewing, weaving, woodwork, to pottery, gardening. Not to mention, a brilliant chef. And the biggest lover of animals.

I have happy memories working with Kate. She was quick to make us laugh with an acerbic wit. Everything was laid straight on the table.

She was open, honest, motivated, supportive, caring. And I can’t imagine a more loyal, steadfast, generous, spirited friend. She listened, gave good advice along with hugely intense bear hugs.

Kate you will be missed by so many. Forever in our thoughts and memories. With much love dear friend.

Linda Fenwick

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