Cathy A. Penrose

Cathy Ann (Peterson) Penrose, 66, of Wausau, Wisconsin, went into the arms of God after a valiant fight at Aspirus Wausau Hospital- surrounded by the love and presence of her family and friends on November 17th, 2024.

Cathy was born April 11, 1958, to Gary and Harriet (Young) Peterson of Wausau. Cathy grew up as the only girl in a family of 3 brothers and held a special place in the family, being the light of her father’s and mother’s eyes. Cathy attended Wausau West High School and graduated in the class of 1976. Shortly after graduating high school, she met the love of her life and husband of 45 years, Lance. They were soon married on June 23rd, 1979, at the vibrant age of 21 and not long after, in September of 1979, they welcomed their only son, Gary.

As a family of 3, Cathy was the glue that held the family together, always taking on whatever challenges life threw at them and making the best of it. They would often spend their free time going for walks, taking trips in the family car, or going “Up North” to the cottage on Diamond Lake for some fishing or laughs and good times with family and friends. Outside of her free time, Cathy worked as a Produce Manager for IGA stores until her retirement in 2003. After retirement, Cathy nestled in her home in Wausau always contently perched right next to her husband Lance at the kitchen table along with her beloved dogs laying quietly at her feet.

In her retirement, Cathy enjoyed simple pleasures such as watching movies, listening to music, reading, doing puzzles, playing virtual casino games and cooking. If you were ever lucky enough to stop over while she was baking, you would be greeted with a large roaster pan full of cookies for the taking! Cathy cherished her family and friends with her whole heart- she would spend hours gabbing on the phone to friends or showing off pictures of all her great-nieces and nephews (Amelia, Adalynn, Abigail, Emmet, Anakin, and Elijah). Earlier this year, Cathy had the privilege of becoming a grandma for the first time and her heart was absolutely full. She would tell everyone she met about her Grandson, Bear, and his blue eyes and dimples. She would even follow it up with proudly presenting pictures and videos of him, which she adored so deeply.

Cathy led a full life of values of love, gratitude, generosity, family and friendship; there were so many people whose lives she entered and left her mark on. She was the best Sister, Aunt, Mother, Grandmother and Friend and she will be truly missed as she has left a large hole in all our hearts.

Cathy is survived by her husband and soulmate, Lance Penrose; son, Gary (Allie) Penrose; brothers, Greg (Diane) Peterson, Guy Peterson, Grant Peterson; nieces and nephews, Connor Peterson and Caitlin (Peterson) Mandeville, Taylor (Brandon) Thurs, and Paige Peterson; great-nieces/nephews, Amelia, Adalynn, Abigail Thurs and Emmet, Anakin and Elijah Peterson; and the newest and greatest joy of her life- her grandson, Bear Penrose. We also can’t forget her rescue dog, Peanut, and all her many friends.

Cathy is proceeded in death by her loving parents, Gary and Harriet (Young) Peterson; and her faithful companions, Ben, Lyness, and Ellie.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 7th, 2024, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 6205 Alderson Street, Weston, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the church. A lunch will follow the service for all that knew and loved Cathy at 12:00 PM. 

The family would like to extend our most sincere thanks to Aspirus Wausau Hospital CICU for the kindness and compassion demonstrated toward Cathy and the relentless efforts devoted to heal her. A special thank you to Pastor Lance Hoelscher and the Mount Olive Lutheran Church for all that they have done for Cathy and Lance over the years and for providing peace and comfort to Cathy and family during her transition into Heavenly Light. Also, we would like to acknowledge and thank the staff at Ascend Funeral Home for their genuine caring and sympathy as well as their tender approach to our loved one in death- you are all doing God’s work and we will forever be grateful for you. 

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Weston, is assisting Cathy’s family. If you would like to honor Cathy with flowers, memorial funds, or kind words, please visit www.ascendweston.org