Cathy Jean Skoglund

Cathy Jean Skoglund, nee Stratinsky, age 76, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Monday, May 20, 2024. Born to Hazel Wicklund and lovingly adopted by James and Marjorie Stratinsky as a newborn. Jim and Marge gave her the world and were the most unconditionally supportive and loving parents a person could ever be blessed with.

Cathy married Phillip Norris in 1967 and welcomed their daughter, April Diane, in June 1968. Unfortunately, Cathy was widowed at a young age due to a tragic accident.

While hanging out with friends, she met Raymond K. Skoglund. These two went to Thornridge High School together but hung out in different crowds. Next thing you know, they married June 2, 1973.

Cathy was a huge animal lover, so Ray bought her a pair of English Bulldogs as a wedding present and their lives began together in South Holland, Illinois. Cathy and Ray welcomed Kristin Michelle in June 1974, and Raymond Walter in June 1975. With three children in tow, their family was complete and many adventures were had.

From camping trips in Michigan with family and friends, to coaching Kristin’s softball team for a few years, to sitting at the kitchen table with her kids and their friends playing board games for hours on end, to staying up all night to master Mario Brothers or Pac-man (she was an OG gamer!), to hosting many great cookouts/parties with Ray that people still chatter about to this day.

Cathy held many jobs over the years but her favorites were being South Holland Police dispatcher for years and then driving for VanDer AA Bus Lines until she retired after Ray’s passing in 1997. I don’t think any of those jobs gave her more pleasure than when she became a grandma.

Loving Grandmother of Samantha Ann (Kyle), Kaitlyn Michelle, Rayne Matthew, Raegan Marie, Haylee Marie, Phillip James and Chloe Rae. Their beautiful faces, time and love always made her happy.

Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the cremation arrangements. Memories, condolences and photos may be shared with Cathy’s family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.