Catherine Marie Gander died, at the age of 71, peacefully surrounded by her family, on February 10, 2020.
Catherine lived a life which exemplified compassionate service. She cared deeply about ministries which spread the love of Christ, empowered women, and children’s literacy. Catherine made those in her presence feel cared about. She frequently expressed her love through thoughtful hand-written notes and attentively selected gifts. Catherine valued humility. Many who loved her may not know about her accomplished academic and professional history. She pursued her bachelor’s degree in General Studies part-time while working full-time and caring for her family. She graduated valedictorian of her class at Mary Hardin Baylor University. Catherine held several director positions in Human Resources. In 2008, she completed a master’s in social work at George Mason University. She was a beloved social worker at an affordable housing complex for seniors and adults with disabilities. Catherine had a passion for reading and often spent her free time captivated by a book.
Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Eileen Schmitz.
She is survived by her loving husband, John Gander, daughters, Aubrey Woolley (Brian Diener) and Lauren Woolley (Walter Rosenkranz), sister Mary Bolton, brother Gregory Schmitz, nephew Alexander Bolton, step-children Julie Ramos (Danny Ramos), Jason Gander (Melanie Gander), and Jill Couvillon (Clay Couvillon), and grandchildren, Ashlyn and Isabella Ramos, Barrett and Townes Couvillon, and Alexis and Evan Gander.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blazing Hope Ranch, blazinghoperanch.org. The family would like to give a special thanks to the members of Catherine’s Sunday school class.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson (423) 531-3975.