Catherine Merdich

Obituary Catherine Cunningham Merdich Born November 9, 1923, Catherine (Kay, Cassie) was the 2nd of twelve children of Kate and Patrick Cunningham of Meentashask, Ardara, Co, Donegal, Ireland. She passed away peacefully October 9, 2009 surrounded by her family. Kay came to Tacoma in 1948, meeting her sweetheart Michael in October 1951 after his return to McChord AFB from Japan/Korea. Married July 5, 1952, she worked for 11 years at Pacific Match Co and for 18 years as an Avon representative. Kay loved to camp with family, listen to Irish and big band music, and would rather dance than do anything else, especially with her grandchildren. Every person Kay met became her friend, and she leaves behind many. She felt her greatest blessings were her U.S. Citizenship, the large group of family and friends from Ireland, the wonderful neighbors she lived around and the life she had with Mike and her boys. Kay had a very strong faith, and a keen sense of right and wrong. But that never prevented her from playing an occasional trick on an unsuspecting friend, or sticking her hand through the neighbor's fence to help herself to some of his vegetables... Kay is survived by her loving husband Michael, sons Brian (LeeAnn) and David (Denise) and grandchildren Breanne, Jeffrey, Brendan and Merit. Also brothers James, Charles and Anthony, sisters Mary, Bridget, Josephine, Margaret, and Celine, and many cherished nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter Mary Catherine, her brother Fr. Kieran Cunningham, and sisters Nana and Ellen. The Merdichs wish to thank the loving caregivers and staff at Heartwood Extended Care who became a part of our family. Rosary will be recited on Monday, October 19th, 2009, 7:00 pm at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 20th, 2009, 9:30 am at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Tacoma. Interment at Tahoma National Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.