Catherine Stewart, a woman who loved life, family, music, and adventure, died on March 9, 2024, surrounded by her family. Catherine Jean Christensen was born June 20, 1944, to Aage and Muriel Christensen. She grew up in Ripon, California, and attended college in Santa Barbara and Sacramento. She met Jack Stewart on a blind date, and that was the beginning of their love story. They were married on September 4, 1965. It can be said that they adored and aggravated each other in nearly equal measure. Their marriage represented a good example of patience and kindness, especially when their health challenges arose later in life. Jack died in 2021, and Cathy dearly missed him. They raised four children: Steven (Kathleen), David (Kristen), Kelly (Jake), and Keri (Tony). They adored their grandchildren Ashley, Lance (Ashley), Erica (Zac), Stephanie (Jared), David and Vincent. The great-grandchildren Connor and Adia were a joy to Cathy, and she was eagerly awaiting the arrival of future great-grandchildren. Cathy anxiously awaited visits from family. She’d have fresh coffee and cookies or chocolate cake ready for guests. Her garden was a sanctuary of birdsong, bubbling fountains, flowers (when the deer had not been recently grazing), and beauty. Cathy loved planning adventures with her family — creek walks, hikes, learning to swim, then frequently swimming in the creeks and Yuba River, Christmas tree cutting, and so much more. She excitedly planned adventures but often froze mid-adventure and had to be talked through it — only to succeed, laugh, and begin to plan her next escapade. Music was integral to Cathy’s life. She was encouraged from childhood to nurture and develop her talent. In turn, she nurtured decades of piano students. She loved her students and looked forward to seeing them weekly. Often, her students begged their parents for piano lessons to “visit with Mrs. Stewart and her dog,” and the actual music lesson was second priority in their estimation. She also shared her musical gift with her community and church. Her legacy of music and mentorship will endure. Cathy’s legacy of love will always be remembered. She will be deeply missed. If you go for a swim in the river, splash around a bit for her and call out her name with happy laughter. When you hike a trail and feel the gentle breeze brush against you, smile and say “Hello Cathy!” — for she will always be with us in our hearts and on our adventures! “Jeg elsker dig for evight” — “I love you forever” A mass with special intention for Cathy will be held at 11:30 a.m., June 16, 2024, at Immaculate Conception Church in Downieville, California.June 20th, 1944 — March 9th, 2024