Catherine A. Overson

Catherine Ann Overson, 71, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2014, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, in the presence of her family. Cathy was born on June 14, 1943, at St. Ann’s Hospital, to Donald and Leone (Hinytzke) McKillip. She graduated from Aquinas High School in 1961, and soon married Roger Overson Sr. of La Crosse on September 9, 1961, at Trinity Lutheran Church, La Crosse. He became her loyal husband and dedicated companion for 53 years. Together, they raised two sons who grew into wonderful men. These boys, Roger Jr. and Randall, and eventually their families, were the passions of Catherine’s life.

Catherine was very accomplished at knitting and crocheting, and several of her items were sold at craft shows under the name “Grandma’s House.” Over the years, she also held various jobs in the community, but the love, care and acts of kindness and selflessness she showed to her family and friends are her greatest achievements. Her thoughts were always with her family, even after she fell ill several years ago. She adored her grandchildren immensely and was always very proud of each one of them. Being with any of them brought her the biggest smile.

Catherine was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and sister. Blessed be her memory.

She is survived by her husband, Roger Overson Sr., children Roger Jr. (Lisa) Overson of La Crosse; Randall (Heidi) Overson of Coon Valley; sister Rhea (Terry) Griffel of La Crosse; grandchildren Erica (Tim) Snyder, Emily, Laura (Mark) Kendhammer, Mari, Kristen, Jacob, and Hallie; great-grandchildren Calvin and Harrison; brother-and-sister-in-laws, Gerald and Arlene Overson; and many nieces and nephews.

Catherine asked for a private service and burial at the Mormon Coulee Memorial Park. There will be a Celebration of Life for Catherine at the Day`s Inn of La Crosse on Wednesday August 27^th from 4 to 8 pm. The family asks for no flowers. Memorials can be sent to Blaschke & Schneider Funeral Homes in La Crosse, who is assisting the family.

Many thanks to the wonderful, compassionate doctors and staff on the 6^th floor of Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, particularly nurse Edna, who played such a crucial part in Catherine’s care during her last few hours on earth.

“Gather your beautiful wings, run and fly!

Touching sun, moon, stars and sky.

Hurry, now, your loved one quietly waits

To take your home through heaven’s gate.”