Catherine "Cathy" Patterson was born July 16, 1952 in Detroit, Michigan.  Cathy was a vibrant and resilient woman with a larger-than-life personality that was felt and celebrated by everyone around her. She was immensely loved and will always be remembered for her infectious laughter, and the legacy she leaves behind.  Cathy passed away on February 10, 2025 after a 10 month cancer battle . 

Cathy is survived by her loving daughter, Andrea Bolton. Andrea was not just her daughter but also her best friend, confidante, and biggest supporter. The bond they shared was truly special, a testament to Cathy's unwavering devotion as a mother. Andrea will dearly miss her mother, but will continue to celebrate her vibrant spirit and enduring love. 

Cathy is also survived by her son-in-law, Chuck Bolton and her biggest source of pride, her granddaughters Jenna and Carly- she loved being an Oma more than anything; her older brother Jimmy Gerben, her sisters-in-law, Joanne Gerben and Claudia Jendrusik, as well as her cousins, four nieces and a nephew; and many loyal friends. 

Cathy was predeceased by her mother Viola Gerben (January 8, 1989),  her father Andrew Gerben (December 10, 1996),  her sister Audrey Gerben (June 19, 2018) and her brother Andy "Butch" Gerben (June 19, 2024).  Cathy also always had a rescue dog to care for throughout her life and Tanner was her constant companion until his passing in August 2024.

Cathy worked as an administrative assistant at Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan for 32 years. She began her career in 1975 at the age of 23 and retired in 2007 at the age of 55. In retirement, she enjoyed attending Jenna's dance and theater performances and Carly's soccer and volleyball games; going to the casino and playing cards with friends; going to Rod Stewart and The Rolling Stones concerts; traveling to Las Vegas and Florida, and shopping! 

On July 16, 2025, which would have been Cathy's 73rd birthday, three events will be held to celebrate her extraordinary life:

A Celebration of Life Memorial Mass at 10:30 am at the Basilica of Sainte Anne de Détroit, (1000 St Anne's Street, Detroit)

Immediately following mass, all are invited to attend a luncheon at Mexican Village (2600 Bagley Street, Detroit), where we will share memories and shots of tequila around her favorite food- please RSVP where indicated on the website- Cash bar will be made available.

Lastly, a private urn interment will take place at 3:30 PM at St Hedwig Cemetery & Mausoleum Dearborn, where Cathy's family will bid their final goodbye.

While we mourn the loss of a loving mother, vibrant friend and an unforgettable personality, we are comforted in the knowledge that Cathy's legacy of love will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Her laughter and warmth will remain with us, always reminding us of the beautiful soul we have lost. Even at the end she found a way to make others laugh, by asking her hospice caregivers to sneak her out to the casino-we love and miss you Mom, Oma, sister, Aunt Cathy!

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