James E. "Lefty" Cathcart

James Eugene "Lefty" Cathcart, 91, of Springfield, passed away at 10:55 p.m. on November 6, 2016 at St. John's Hospice. Gene was born on November 29, 1924 in Knox Township, Pennsylvania, the son of James William and Zella Mae Dunlap Cathcart. He married Margery Fowler on October 27, 1956 in Pawnee, Illinois. Gene graduated from Hershey Industrial School in Hershey, PA, the class of 1942. He proudly served during World War II as a member of the U.S. Army. He worked for Central Illinois Light Company for over 34 years and retired in 1983. He was a member of St. Cabrini Church, IBEW Local 193, and also volunteered at MMC for over 10 years. Lefty enjoyed the outdoors, bowling, playing baseball, and winters in Arizona watching the Cubs (W). Above all, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and two sisters. He is survived by his wife, Margery of Springfield; daughters, Susan (Steve) Friedman of Rochester and Catherine Cathcart of Springfield; son, James W. (Meta) Cathcart of Edwardsville; four grandchildren, Andrea (Nick), Christina, Stephanie, and Cameron; two great-grandchildren, Nolan and Alayna; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 10, 2016 at St. Cabrini Church, 1020 N. Milton Ave., Springfield. Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 10, 2016 at St. Cabrini Church with Rev. Clint Honkomp, OP, celebrant. Burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery following the ceremony. Memorial contributions may be made to: St. John's Hospice, 800 E. Carpenter, Springfield, IL 62679.