It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of a cherished woman, sister, mother, and grandmother, Catherine 'Cat' Jarema, who left us peacefully on July 19, 2023, with her family by her side.

Born on April 12, 1953, to Walter and Mary Jarema in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Cat spent most of her younger years in Michigan with her siblings: Rita Haddad, Carleen, Michael, and Robert Jarema. She truly cherished each moment they spent with one another. As with all the Jarema family, Cat’s uncanny quick wit and ability to produce one-liners in a moment’s notice was unmatched. It could be assured that anytime the Jarema siblings would get together, the house would be filled with laughter and fun that was truly a joy for all that were fortunate enough to experience it. Even in her later days, Cat was adamant on bringing laughter and a smile to all those around her.

Cat had, in many ways, become a professional re-locator. Throughout the years, she traveled and moved to many locations, both within the states and overseas. In true Cat fashion, she was able to make long lasting friendships along the way with people in even the most unlikely of places. With all the moving there was one thing that remained consistent - her dedication to putting the needs of her family first. No matter where home was at the time, Cat made sure that all the family was making it to their various school activities, sporting events, and social activities and oftentimes also stepping in as a coach and commissioner of the multiple leagues and committees.

A true lover of art, nature, and animals, there wasn’t a location or country where her family was not extended by her compassion for all living things. Whether that be a rogue beagle in Kentucky, a blind kitty in the streets of Hong Kong, or a “wild dog” on the outskirts of the jungle in Malaysia, there was always room in the family in Cat’s eyes. Though later in life she did not have any pets in the conventional terms, she would get her animal fix by volunteering at the bird sanctuary or feeding the squirrels at the park (who, without her around, will surely lose considerable weight). Cat’s kindness and love for all creatures (humans included) impacted so many in ways they might never know, but this compassion should be an example to all.

Above all, Cat loved her family and would go above and beyond for them. Though she may not have been the biological mother to all her “children,” her legacy will be attempted by her sons Jesse, Adam, David, Toby Moss, and daughter, Toni Harris. In addition, her grandchildren TJ, Zack, Alex, Brady, Lucas, Hannah, Peyton, and Alessandra will surely miss their “Graham Cracker.”

Her bright, witty, compassionate personality was a gift to all who knew her, creating countless memories filled with laughter and joy. The loss of her presence will be deeply felt by all and her remarkable journey in this life serves as a testament to a woman who loved so much but asked for so little in return.

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