Catherine Marie (Stack) Stephenson, 83, passed away Monday, November 9, 2020. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10-11 AM, Thursday, November 12, 2020, at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 15410 Leavenworth Road, Basehor, KS 66007. Mass of Christian Burial for family members only will follow at 11 AM. Burial in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. All are welcome to join the graveside services. Masks are required for all funeral activities.
Catherine, who was born in Kansas City, Kansas, was part of a large Irish Catholic family, which included five brothers and two sisters. In 1957, she married Earl LeRoy Stephenson. They were married for 58 years before he died in 2015. Catherine spent most of her work life at Industrial State Bank (formerly Fidelity State Bank). She held a number of positions before retiring as a Vice President over 20 years ago.
Catherine, a member of Holy Angels Church, loved her Catholic faith. She attended St. Benedict’s grade school and graduated from Bishop Ward High School. In her later years, especially, she attended Mass and the rosary daily.
Spending time with family, whether it was celebrating the holidays, a birthday or simply enjoying Sunday dinner together, always brought great joy to Catherine. She adored her two granddaughters, 2 grandsons and 1 great grandson. The annual 4th of July picnic that she organized with her sister, Maureen, was something she looked forward to and began planning months in advance. After the event, it was the topic of conversation for the two sisters for months to come.
Catherine spent the last year and a half living at Villa St. Francis in Olathe, where she received compassionate care from a devoted staff. Alzheimer’s had robbed her of many things, including her ability to communicate. While she often could not express her gratitude, the staff shared that her eyes and beautiful smile spoke volumes about her kind heart.
Catherine is survived by two daughters: Debra and her husband George (Joe) DeCoster, Carol and her husband Bob Cowdrey; 4 grandchildren: Jennifer and her husband Josh Zans; Sarah and her husband Aaron Bialek; Rob Cowdrey; and Ryan Cowdrey; 1 great grandson: Liam Bialek.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Villa St. Francis or Holy Angels Catholic Church.