Catherine J. Gorwitz
Okemos, MI
Catherine Jean Fernholz Gorwitz passed away in Lansing, Michigan, on June 24, 2024, at 80 years old. She was born August 3, 1943, in Mulliken, Michigan.
As an ardent Michigan State Spartan fan she was especially delighted with the successes of Tom Izzo’s basketball teams. She enjoyed baking, attending synagogue, reading, playing bingo and mahjong, and spending time with friends and family.
A proud member of the Grand Ledge High School class of 1962, she remained in touch with her fellow alums for most of her life. She also enjoyed the connection she created with the East Lansing community through her many years working at Jacobson’s Department Store.
Her faith was a guiding force in her life. She was a faithful member of Congregation Shaarey Zedek in East Lansing, MI. Her time with us will continue to serve as an inspiration to anyone who knew her.
She also personified volunteerism through the many organizations she ceaselessly promoted, especially the Greater Lansing Food Bank. Cathy was an enthusiastic advocate and volunteer for the Michigan Democratic Party. Above all else, she cared about making this world a better place through social justice.
She was preceded in death by husband Kurt Gorwitz, parents Herbert Fernholz and Bertha (Boughner) Fernholz, sisters Ethel Burch (Dale) and Rose Smith (Gilbert), brother Herbert Fernholz (Joyce), and long-time companion Wally Wisniewski II. Surviving are stepchildren Mark Gorwitz and Sandra Gorwitz-Gottlin (Bill), sister Ann Donley (Michael), beloved nephews and niece: Steven Smith, Daniel Smith, Gilbert Smith Jr, Janis Smith, Thomas Smith, Patrick Smith, Andrew Burch, Mike Fernholz, Richard Fernholz, Matthew Donley, and Benjamin Donley, as well as many extended family members.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 1924 Coolidge Rd., East Lansing. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Lansing.
Donations should be made in her memory to the Greater Lansing Food Bank.
Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. www.EstesLeadley.com
4 Messages to “Catherine J. Gorwitz”
Print MessagesPlease Sign The Guestbook
Cheryl Farhat
June 26, 2024 at 8:28 amShe was a very good friend of my mother, Marilyn Abraham. I visited her a few months ago and could see that she was struggling. My deepest sympathies to her family. Her passion for MSU and the Food Bank was remarkable…just like Cathy. I will miss you but know that you will cause trouble in heaven with my mom.
Jim & Dana Brazis
June 26, 2024 at 11:28 amTo All The Donley Family..
Jim and I are so sorry to hear of Cathy’s passing.May your memories bring you peace and comfort.
Thinking of you all.
Sandra Gorwitz-Gottlin
June 28, 2024 at 3:07 pmA beautiful tribute to Cathy’s life and all her efforts to bring joy and happiness to others. She will be missed by many.
Sandy, Bill and Alexandra Gottlin
Ben Donley
July 1, 2024 at 7:56 pmSandy –
I am so sorry Alexandra was not mentioned in the official obituary. It’s so hard to do everything perfectly. She absolutely was a huge part of Cathy’s life and should have been listed.