The memorial service for 98-year-old Dorothy Cathey is planned at Holy Rosary this Wednesday, after a Tuesday night Rosary. Here’s the remembrance her family is sharing:

Dorothy Cathey, a long-time West Seattle resident, passed peacefully in her sleep on October 22nd at her home.

Born in Tacoma, WA on March 20th, 1915, to Fred and Marie Meyer, Dorothy was one of six children. She graduated from St. Leo’s High School in Tacoma.

In 1943, Dorothy married Marquis Leonard Cathey (Len), a Seattle police officer. Together they built a family of four children, a network of wonderful friendships, and a loving marriage filled with fun and family.

Dorothy worked at J.C. Penney as a retail associate for many years. She was actively involved with Holy Rosary Parish and the Children’s Orthopedic Guild.

Dorothy was an amazing mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Her faith, family, and friendships defined her life. She was an inspiration for all ages. Those around her were constantly amazed by her charisma and wit. Her incredible strength and fierce loyalties to her family and friends was what she was all about.

Dorothy always loved a party – and was usually the life of that party. Dorothy was still enjoying life up to her final day – and could be one of the Seattle Mariners greatest fans –never missing a game on TV. For Dorothy, a good day could range from being surrounded by her family for a game of cards, to an excursion to the casino with family and friends for gambling and a martini, always with three olives.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband and her daughter Carole. She is survived by her sister, Ginny Wilkinson, and three children Sharon, Patricia Welch (Phil), and Patrick (Lani). She is also survived by Gus Swenson, Carole’s husband, whom Dorothy loved as a son; her six grandchildren Darron Forsell (Nicole), Shannon McLaughlin (Frank Jr), Michael Welch (Keri), Maria Michaud (Peter), Conor and Megan Cathey. She also is survived by 13 great-grandchildren: Trevor, Alyssa, Brandon, Frank III, Anthony, Justin, Lucas, Kaleb, Korbin, Danny, Katie, Jonny, Dorothy. Dorothy’s children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of her life.

Services will be held on Wednesday, October 30th, at 10:30 am at Holy Rosary Church, 4210 SW Genesee in West Seattle. A reception at the church will follow. A Rosary will be held on Tuesday, October 29th, at 7:00 pm at the church.

Memorials can be made to the Children’s Orthopedic Guild.

(WSB publishes obituaries by request, free of charge. Please e-mail the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)