HOERBELT - Catherine M.  December 19, 1951 - January 5, 2024


A generous and beautiful soul, passed away at the age of 72.

Cathie is survived by her loving mother, Dorothy Pack, her dear husband, Curtis, to whom she was married for 40 years, sons, Christopher (Tiffany), and Michael (Andria), her beloved grandchildren, Griffin and Viola, siblings Mary (Kevin) O'Brien, Janet (Robert) Bartkowiak, John (Sharon) Adolf, and Beth (Scott) Pitoniak, step siblings, Debra Feger and Robert and James (Kathy) Pack, as well as dozens of nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Cathie was raised and lived most of her life in Lancaster, New York. She was born on December 19, 1951, the first child of Dorothy (Pack) and John Derner.  Before John died six years later in 1957, he hoped his daughters would one day become nurses in honor of those who cared for him while he was ill with cancer.

Cathie became the first in the family to fulfill her father's wish, earning her R.N. degree at Alfred State College and working for more than 40 years in the emergency and ambulatory surgical departments at Children's Hospital of Buffalo.

Her career was well chosen, as Cathie loved children and children adored her. She doted on her own sons and grandchildren, her nieces and nephews, and any other young people who were fortunate enough to know her. Early in her career, she often provided a weekend and holiday home for a young girl who required frequent hospitalization and whose family was unable to care for her.

Whether it was tending to her garden, making puzzles, cooking in her kitchen, or appreciating the scenic beauty in and around western New York, Cathie moved through the world with grace and elegance. Her brilliant smile and gentle laugh endeared her to everyone. Cathie's family members and friends will also never forget her love of dogs, Scrabble, the Beatles, and a good giggle.

In addition to her father, Cathie was predeceased by her stepfather, Robert Pack.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday January 11, 2024 at the WENDEL & LOECHER INC. FUNERAL HOME 27 Aurora St. Lancaster, NY from 4-7pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations in Cathie's memory to Feed More WNY or Doctors Without Borders.