Cathie was born in Brooklyn New York, June 14, 1938 to William and Mary Johnstone. They moved to Bound Brook, New Jersey in 1948 where she graduated Bound Brook High School. She tried to make every reunion! She studied at Muhlenberg Hospital Nursing School in Plainfield New Jersey, where she became a registered nurse 1959. She later went back to school and received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1985. She married Charles E. Petak, May 28, 1960 and had 3 daughters. They made Texas their home in 1963, ending up in Houston in 1974.
Cathie was a practicing nurse for the better of 50 years, with most of her time spent at Memorial City Hospital. She started as a floor nurse and made her way to Nursing Administration. During this time, she also started a business, Second Silhouette, with her best friend Jackie Moll. She continued to run the business even after Jackie’s passing, selling the 2 stores in 2010.
Cathie enjoyed traveling, reading, and cooking.
Cathie is preceded in death by her husband Charlie. She is survived by her daughters, Pamela Petak, Lauren Petak, and Wendy Cohn; Her granddaughters Jennifer and Elizabeth Cohn; Her loving companion Dan Diaz; Her sisters Margaret Buttenbaum, May Biondi, Alice Johnstone and their families; Her furry friends Gracie and Spot.
Cathie will be cremated and placed next to her beloved Charlie in a private graveside service, with a celebration of her life to take place later, when the world is safer for her family and friends.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please offer a donation to Alzheimer’s Association.
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