Catherine Block Stretmater

Stretmater, Catherine Block
97, passed away peacefully on Sept. 29, 2011 in Scottsdale, AZ. Preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Forrest, son David, and sister Betty Jane. Survived by son Robert (Celia), grandchildren Amy and Ryan (Amy) and great granddaughter Emily. Catherine was born in Champaign, Illinois, to Walter and Helen Block and grew up in Evansville, Indiana. Following her graduation from Indiana State University, she taught high school business classes in Ohio. After returning to Evansville and marrying Forrest she also taught college level business classes. They lived in Evansville for 20 years. before moving to Richmond, Virginia with Forrest's job at Reynolds Metals. In retirement they returned to Evansville and then to Scottsdale. Catherine was active in her church wherever she lived and loved to read, play bridge, knit and sew, and travel the world (she was in one of the first tourist groups to travel to China). Music was her true passion and playing the electronic keyboard gave her years of pleasure later in life - or as she always said: "I play for my amusement and amazement." She had a repertoire of 250 songs, all of which she played by ear. Plus, her grandchildren were in awe of her ability to whistle two notes at a time! Catherine had a sweet disposition and quick wit that endeared her to all. But her real legacy is that of a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great grandmother. She always put her family and friends before herself and enriched their lives with her unwavering love, caring, support and encouragement. Truly a life well lived! A private service will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.