Catherine Ganz

Catherine Ruth Ganz, born on February 29, 1928, in North Hudson, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully with her children by her side, on November 8, 2025, at the age of 97. To those who knew her, Catherine was a bright, steady presence, shaped by her loving parents, Carl William (Bill) and Mabel Peterson, and by her childhood in the close-knit Hudson community. She graduated from Hudson High School in 1946. In 1950, she married Elmer Ganz and together they built a life filled with devotion, hard work, and the joy of raising their two children.

Catherine was dedicated to her career as a supervisor at the Telephone Office, but her true passion lay in her many interests and the joy she brought to those around her. She was a gifted artist, with a love of painting and drawing. Catherine also had a nurturing heart and consistently looked out for others, establishing herself as a beloved figure in her community and a wonderful mother to her family. To her grandchildren and great grandchildren, Catherine gave a love that knew no limits - love that showed up in every hug, every story, every proud smile, and every moment she spent with them. They were her greatest joy, and she made sure they always knew it.

Her love didn't stop with people. Over the years Catherine had several dogs, each one spoiled with treats, snuggles, and the same gentle affection she gave so freely to everyone in her life. Her dogs were her loyal companions, and she cared for them with a tenderness that reflected her generous spirit.

She also had an unexpected bond with a rooster named Henry - originally raised by Elmer for produce, but who took one look at Catherine and decided she was his person. Henry would trot across the yard each day just to greet her, a small but cherished reminder of the warmth she seemed to inspire in every living thing around her.

An avid enthusiast of garage and estate sales, Catherine loved the thrill of discovering hidden treasures. Travel also brought her joy, allowing her to create lasting memories with family and friends. Music was a constant source of happiness for her; she loved to sing along to her favorite tunes and loved the live music offered at Wintergreen and Pine Ridge (CCH).

Catherine will be remembered for her warm heart, her easy laughter, and the way she made everyone - family, friend, and four legged companion - feel loved. Her limitless love lives on in the family she cherished and the memories she created.

She is survived by her children Lynne (John) Skram and Steven (Betsy) Ganz; grandchildren Kelli (Jeff Schacht) Skram, Kerri (Dan) Mikeska, Brian Skram, Kyle Ganz, and Stephanie (Ryan) Goetz; great grandchildren Natalie, Matthew and Riley.

She is preceded in death by her husband Elmer, parents Bill and Mabel; siblings William Peterson, Virginia Fritz, Germaine Clark and Colleen Wisely.

Special thanks to the compassionate staff at the Christian Community Home, Lakeview Hospice and Dr. Mark Druffner.

A Celebration of Life for Catherine will be held on December 6th at 11am, at the Community Center on the Christian Community Home campus in Hudson.

Memorials are preferred to Christian Community Homes 1320 Wisconsin St. Hudson, WI 54016