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Cathy Stembridge Obituary

Catherine Burns Stembridge, nee Logan, age 70, passed away March 4, 2020 at her home in Evanston, Illinois. Her beloved husband of 47 years, George Stembridge III, was by her side. Devoted mother of Catherine "Katie" Wisby (Jake) and George "Skip" Stembridge IV (Nina), and doting "C" to grandchildren Beau and Mary Grace Stembridge.

Loving and protective older sister to Andrew (Margaret Susan) Logan, and Charles (Jamie) Logan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Joan Logan, and her brother, Robert Logan, Jr. (Martha). She leaves behind sister-in-law Victoria (James) Woodward and brother-in-law, Charles "Chip" Stembridge, plus many cousins, nieces and nephews, friends and business associates.

Cathy earned her Bachelor of Journalism degree at the University of Missouri, where she joined Alpha Phi sorority.

Cathy worked for Alpha Phi International in a number of roles, including serving on the Foundation's executive team in their Evanston headquarters. Cathy then started a thirty-plus year career at Northwestern University. She served in various roles in the Office of Alumni Relations and Development which included Executive Director of Alumni Relations. Her tireless work ethic and kind and compassionate spirit helped strengthen Northwestern's alumni network. She became friends with hundreds of loyal alumni across the country and joined them as an NU alumna after earning her Master of Science degree in Communication.

Cathy was a fan of cats both at work and at home. She rooted for the Northwestern Wildcats in the classroom and on the field, and she opened her home to rescue otherwise-unadoptable felines. She and George enjoyed boating, traveling and gardening together. Beyond her devotion to her family, Cathy was a loyal and generous friend.

Cathy was a lifelong Evanston resident, except when she and George were newlyweds and he was stationed with the U.S. Navy in Virginia Beach.

The memorial for Cathy has been postponed and will be held at a future date, to be determined by the family. In lieu of flowers, at Cathy's request memorials may be made to the WSS Foundation (wssfoundation.org).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune from Mar. 6 to Mar. 8, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Cathy Stembridge

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Ann Clark

March 2, 2025

Cathy was a life-long friend who I met in Va Beach starting my life as a wife of a naval aviator. She and George were neighbors and friends whose friendship will forever be a part of our hearts. You are missed, Cathy. We loved and love you always. Ann Clark

Ann Clark

July 13, 2023

I am so sad to read of Cathy´s passing, George. I have missed you both s years

John Buckley

June 4, 2020

I am sadden by Cathy's passing. If a life is judged by how many people lives you touched Cathy would score a perfect purple 10.

Jim and

March 22, 2020

We are so sorry to hear about Cathys death. She was always such a happy, positive and fun person to be around. Our prayers are with your entire family.

Pete Friedmann

March 21, 2020

I had the privilege of getting to know and work with Cathy in several capacities as an alumnus. I am forever grateful for her friendship, kindness, and guidance. One example stands out to me. In 1998-99, Cathy was invaluable in advising us on the establishment of the band alumni organization, The NUMBALUMS, which is now a thriving, award-winning NU alumni club. In 2010, the club awarded Cathy its highest honor in recognition of her service, without which the organization would not exist. I was glad to see that the family postponed her memorial service and hope they can find a way to let us know when it is rescheduled so we can help celebrate her life. Our deepest sympathies to her family, and our thanks for sharing Cathy with us.

Joyce Zeiss

March 13, 2020

So sorry to hear of Cathy's passing. We were on that wonderful Northwestern river trip with you from Amsterdam to Switzerland several years ago and had such a good time with Cathy as leader. I just pulled the picture out the other day of our group standing with the Northwestern flag with the Matterhorn in the background. Our condolences to you, and Katie (my former Haven student) and your whole family.
Ray and Joyce Zeiss

March 9, 2020

Barbara and Wally Doren (57 class) were deeply saddened by the news.

She visited LaJolla, was in our home, always had a smile..we would try to see her when we came to Evanston for visits and meetings. She will be greatly missed...sorry we are too far away to attend a service...our sympathy to her husband and children.

Willie Weinbaum

March 8, 2020

I'm forever grateful for Cathy's wonderful sense of humor, humility, smarts and generosity. She was a guiding light from Evanston for all of us on the N'western Club of Greater NY board in the 1980s & 90s (yes, the envelope & stamp-licking era) and an effervescent beacon, always, for all alumni. It was such fun to share laughs and reminiscences with Cathy. Condolences to the Stembridge and NU families Cathy's care and compassion, honesty and realism, friendship and dedication will be with us for eternity.

March 8, 2020

Heartfelt condolences to the Stembridge and Logan families on their loss.
Darrell and Dona Fry

Laura Wdowiarz

March 8, 2020

My deepest condolences to George and family on such a great loss. May the love of family and friends bring you comfort.

Candy K Deemer

March 7, 2020

I know I am just one of thousands of Northwestern alumni who have been both touched and honored by our friendship with Cathy. She leaves behind a legacy of passion, grace, and love that will live on in all of us. She was the best 'cat of em all! My heartfelt condolences to everyone in her family.

Sam Stowell

March 6, 2020

Please accept my deepest sympathy to the Stembridge and Logan families. Cathy is a wonderful person.

March 6, 2020

Thinking of the family and wishing them comfort

Lonnie & Jean Haefner

March 6, 2020

George & Family - Cathy was an exceptional person. We know your family will miss her greatly. She was one of the finest members of the Northwestern community. She was always willing to help in every way. Rest In Peace, Cathy. God Bless all of you. Dr. & Mrs. Lonnie E. Haefner

Amy Kahn

March 5, 2020

My deepest condolences to the Stembridge family on your loss. I worked with Cathy for 14 years at Northwestern. She was a wonderful colleague, a great collaborator, devoted to the institution and a warm, kind person. She will be greatly missed. May the family be comforted in their loss by the memories of a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother.

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