Cathleen “Cat" Hurst, a vibrant spirit and dedicated servant to others, passed away from complications of Parkinson's on January 3rd, 2025, in Lakewood, Colorado. Her life was spent helping others in need and loving her children, her animals, and those she served; embracing life's adventures and challenges with open arms, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Cathleen Jeanne Hurst was born March 15, 1949, in Spokane, WA to Louis and Lynn (Sawtelle) Hurst. She then grew up in Iowa and later Colorado, graduating from Wheat Ridge High School in 1967. Cathleen was married twice and had three children, Christianna born 1967, David born 1971 (David F. Capra), and Colin born 1982 (Peter G. Ashbaugh).

In late 1974 the young family relocated to Washington State and once settled near Seattle, Cathleen began to work part-time jobs which led to an exploration of numerous interesting jobs throughout her life. Listing some of these would be one of the first female merchant mariners for the Washington State Ferryboats (Puget Sound), 911 emergency dispatch for King County Police (Seattle), National Park Service ranger on Liberty and Ellis Island in New York during the restoration projects of 1985, NYC commercial Realtor (Brooklyn and Manhattan), Fashion Industry 7th Ave (Donna Karan and others), UDC Times Square 1990 restoration project, and more, too many to mention.

After moving back home to Colorado in 1991, Cathleen obtained her CDL and began her final career as a Jefferson County School Bus Driver which she held with accolades for more than 26 years. During her time as a Jeffco Driver she earned seniority rank, perfect driving records and she would opt to bid the tougher routes because ‘those kids would need her’ more than the others. Cat’s summer and weekend jobs were active and spent outdoors such as Loveland / Arapahoe Basin Ski and Clear Creek Rafting Co.

Cat's dedication to learning was evident throughout her life. She amassed college credits from universities across the country, ultimately earning her BA in English/Art, Secondary Education from Denver Metro State University in 2008. Her teaching skills extended beyond the classroom, enriching the lives of her "bus kids" and countless others. For years, she volunteered as a tutor in correctional facilities in both Washington and Colorado, mentoring both women and youth.

Cathleen was a devout Catholic becoming confirmed at age 70 yet practicing her entire life, she held sacred a deeply rich spiritual life and was considered a compassionate missionary to hundreds of souls. Cat loved music, art, literature, animals, children, the ocean and the mountains. She loved life and worked hard for most of it. She appreciated good food, intelligent conversation, and a frothy Guinness on tap.

Cathleen is survived by her 3 children, Christianna Capra of Three Bridges, NJ, David (Marla) Capra of Palm Desert, CA and Colin Hurst-Ashbaugh of Wheat Ridge, CO. Three grandchildren- James, Nora and Sofia Capra of Palm Desert, CA. Brothers Mark (Mary Jo) Yantis of Castle Rock, CO and Rick (Donna) Yantis of Thornton, CO

Rosary and Funeral Mass scheduled for Friday, March 14, 2025, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Denver and a repast lunch at Clancy’s Irish Pub following. In lieu of gifts or flowers please consider donating in name of ‘Cat’ either to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Denver or to Spring Reins of Life, Inc. 501c3 in New Jersey.

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