Family and friends fondly remember Caterina calling “viene a tavolo” not only as a call “come to the table” but for the great food, conversation and, of course, the vino.
Caterina Udovini was born in Jelsane, Italy, as the youngest of 5 children born to Giacomo and Giovanna Udovini. Caterina was especially close to her sisters: Gressi, Alba, Anna and brother, Luigi.
After WWII, Caterina met Robert L. Gattman who was stationed with the US Army in Italy. In 1950, Bob and Caterina were married in Trieste. Bob remained active duty military for 31 years, and Caterina accompanied him to many duty stations throughout the world, with the exception of wartime transfers to Korea and Vietnam.
Caterina was very proud of earning her American citizenship. She embraced her new country, but treasured her Italian heritage.
Caterina and Bob (2008) were happily married for 58 years and both were long time parishioners and volunteers to St. Joseph the Worker Church. Caterina had been active with the Altar Guild and Snow Cap for many years. She organized the very first parish Spaghetti Dinner using her own Italian recipes, and was thrilled that the proceeds went to supporting other church agencies.
Caterina was a homemaker who loved gardening and especially using those fresh veggies in her cooking. She was a phenomenal cook and was happiest when hosting family and friends. She also enjoyed playing cards, and was a member of a ladies bunco group of friends and neighbors for over 40 years. While her children were younger, she was also involved in the PTA.
Caterina is survived by 2 sons and a daughter: Rob (Loretta), David (JoAnn), and Ketty (John), and her 4 grandchildren: Brian, Marcus, Christina (Steven), and Michael.
Rosary service will be at 7 pm on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. Mass and funeral services will be on Thursday at 11 a.m. on January 3rd. Both services will be held at St. Joseph the Worker Church, located at 2310 SE 148th , Portland.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Joseph the Worker Altar Guild or to the Alzheimers Association Oregon Chapter.
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