Obituary of Cathy (Gansler) Weaver

Cathy (Gansler) Weaver passed away after a brief illness on October 12, 2023, in Olympia, Washington.

She leaves her daughter, Melinda Presley (Bob), and grandson, Cameron; son, Darren Weaver (Lisa); stepson, Ryan Weaver; sister-in-law, Sue Burke (Artie); neighborhood daughter, Patti White; and many dear friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Darrell Weaver in 2022; and parents, Richard “Dick” and Luana Gansler.

Cathy was born February 2, 1942, in Bellingham, Washington. She was the only child of Luana and Richard Gansler. Although she didn’t have any siblings, she had an elaborate, make-believe family that were part of her playtime. Family members found it humorous that she still remembered all of their names and the roles they played in her make-believe scenarios. She also spent many weekends visiting with her beloved grandparents and cousins, who also resided in Bellingham.

Cathy attended Bellingham High School.  She was a pretty, petite, young lady who caught the eye of Darrell Weaver. After dating, Darrell and Cathy married in 1962.  They remained married for the rest of their lives, a full 60 years.

As newlyweds, they spent their first two summers up in remote Barrow Alaska and then at the Blue Glacier in the Washington Olympic mountains. Here they recorded scientific data that was sent back to the University of Washington for Darrell’s job in atmospheric sciences. It was quite a rustic adventure, where they lived in a simple cabin or quonsent hut, sharing their space with other scientists. Cathy not only helped with Darrell’s research but also volunteered to cook for the men. In addition to the scientists, there were animals at the compound. Cathy and Darrell had a beautiful pet snowy owl, named Ook.  There were also wolves and foxes that Cathy enjoyed visiting.

Cathy and Darrell eventually moved to Olympia. They bought their first house on three acres on Delphi Rd. This would be their home for 50 years. Here they raised their children, along with numerous pets, planted gardens, fruit trees and flowers. Cathy stayed home with her children for most of their younger years and was an active volunteer at their grade school. When her children were a bit older, she began working as an administrative assistant at Unity Church of Olympia. Here she met many people who became dear, lifelong friends. She worked there for many years, until her retirement.

After retirement, she and Darrell joined the Host Lions Club, where they were actively involved until her passing. The club members became family to them and added so much enjoyment to their lives. They have been so helpful and supportive to her family, especially over the past year or so.

Cathy was truly a kind soul and will be missed by all who knew her. She greeted everyone with a smile and made people feel special and appreciated. She had a gentle demeanor, was a devoted friend, mother, and wife. She was the most loving mother one could ask for, the iconic “milk and cookie” mom. In fact, she will always be remembered for her famous Big Cookie. This was a desert staple in the family home for over 50 years and was enjoyed by many. She also made the best chocolate cream pie around.  No matter how full people were, there was always room for her pie.

The family hopes you can join them to celebrate Cathy’s life on Friday, December 15, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at The Hub at Lacey (next to Ricardo’s), 676 Woodland Square Loop SE, Lacey, WA 98503.

 

Her family would welcome stories, words and memories of how she touched your life.

Please leave condolences or share memories and photos on the Tribute Wall to the left.

 

 

 

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