Obituary of Catherine Ann Loftus

Catherine Ann Loftus (Russell) passed away on May 5, 2021 in her home surrounded by her loved ones. After a long and courageous battle with breast cancer, Cathy was taken much too soon at the age of 57. She entered heaven to a huge welcoming committee of previously passed loved ones, including her mom and dad (Alfred & Sally (Notaro) Russell) whom she’s missed so dearly. To know Cathy, Granny, Mama Cath, Auntie Cathy, Cath was to love her. She had a gift for befriending and nurturing every single person she met. Her compassion came through in many ways: as a great meal to eat, an ear to always listen, a warm hug that embraced you completely, or the perfect words of advice that were never left unspoken. What she loved most in life was: Her family, being a granny to her 3 grandbabies (with two more on the way), a wheelbarrow of tomatoes homegrown from her garden, a homemade jar of salsa to share, the challenge to reinvigorate every dying plant brought her way, pausing life to appreciate every detail that nature had to offer, and creating the most extravagant cards to celebrate birthdays, life events and relay her love from her “save $2 buck card company.” Cathy never failed to give. From sharing her birthday with her lifelong sweetheart Tim; to handing out parts of her lunch with her coworker “kids” throughout her 17 years of dedicated service at Northwest Community Hospital; and her constant donations of time, talent, and penny-pinching advice that she freely shared with all those who wanted to learn her ways. However, the greatest way she gave was being a mom. She was born to be a mother; it was her ultimate dream and she fulfilled it so beautifully. ALL were her children. Her greatest joy was found in watching, cheering, and supporting the dreams of all who she nurtured. Surviving her is her husband, Timothy Loftus; their four children, Katherine Loftus, Amy Spike (AJ), Ryan Loftus (KC), and Patrick Loftus; Her siblings Phyllis Adams, Sonny Russell (Kim), Don Russell (Michelle), Tom Russell, and Gerry Russell (Betsy). A celebration of her life and legacy will be held at the family home on Sunday, May 23rd starting at 12 noon and lasting until everyone has had a chance to honor her that day. In lieu of flowers or gifts, Mama Cath would tell you to save your money you’re silly; please direct donations in honor of her life to the Salk Institute for Cancer Research: https://salk.networkforgood.com/projects/119834-conquering-cancer-giving-funds