Catherine Jeanne Baird

Obituary Catherine Jeanne Norling Baird January 25, 1948 ~ October 21, 2014 Cathie passed away quietly in her own home, surrounded by family, the morning of October 21, 2014. Born in 1948 to Robert Norling and Mary Jeanne Cleary Norling, she was one of four children: Christine (Larry,) Robert Norling Jr., and Eric (Toni.) Cathie was raised in North Tacoma and attended Jefferson Elementary; Saint Patrick's, and graduated from Aquinas Academy in 1966. She briefly worked at American Federal Bank after graduation. Cathie met George Baird in 1968 and fell madly in love. They were married at Saint Patrick Catholic Church on September 6, 1969 and had two children, Vince (Dayna) and Angela Sorenson (Jeff). Boy, did she love her activities!!! She was so busy when the kids were little - President of the kids' PTAs and President of Fircrest Junior Golf. You could always find her working and volunteering in the classroom. As her children grew, Cathie began her countless hours volunteering and helping at Saint Rita Catholic Church. The church was where her heart was. She loved the parishioners of Saint Rita's as if they were her own family. An enormous part of Cathie's pride and joy came from her grandkids: Ashleigh, Emma, Lucas, and Josie. She spent countless hours with them playing and laughing and making memories that will last their lifetime. She was not only a selfless mother, but a wonderful, loving grandmother. Cathie touched the lives of everyone she met. She had a sparkle in her eye and a gentle way that made people feel always welcome and loved. As she fought pancreatic cancer bravely and gracefully, she continued to be concerned about everyone involved in her life. Her devoted husband of 45 years, George, was with her every step of the journey and took absolutely wonderful care of her. Fr. Gene Delmore of Saint Rita was also supportive during this difficult time. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 27, 2014 at 11:00am at St. Patrick Catholic Church followed by a reception. The Rosary will be recited on Sunday, October 26, 2014 at 7:00pm at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Rita Catholic Church. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.