Catherine Elaine "Cathy" Solberg

1943 - 2025

New Richland - Catherine "Cathy" Elaine Solberg, a beloved sister, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on July 10, 1943, to Raymond and Veronica (Callahan) Chicos. Cathy grew up on the family farm in New Richland, where she learned to love and support her family, and developed her deep roots in her community.

Cathy went to New Richland schools, graduating and getting her cosmetology license shortly after high school. Roger Craig Solberg and Cathy were united in marriage on October 25th 1961, in Mankato, MN. In addition to being a devoted mother and farm wife, over the years she occupied many roles in her community, operating the Fox Inn Restaurant with her husband Roger; serving as a paraprofessional with NRHEG Schools, where she supported children with diverse needs; and more. Every role she fulfilled showcased her life-long passion for nurturing others, though none more-so than her time she spent taking care of her family and tending to the family farm.

Cathy's faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her in her commitment to serve others. A regular face at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland, Cathy was active in the Ladies Circle as well as serving on the Altar Guard. Catherine's spirit was one of resilience and joy-to quote her family "She was a fighter her whole life." She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Cathy is survived by her partner Duane Thompson; devoted daughter, Joanne (Dann) Phillips; her grandchildren, Abby (Bryce) Jensen, Kacie (Kareem) Tawfic, Gina (Dan) Kurtz, and Chelsy Quiram; her great-grandchildren, Chase Jensen, Tucker Jensen, Hayes Jensen, Zayn Tawfic, Maxwell Kurtz, Colton Kurtz, Charlotte Wyffels, and Marc Wyffels; as well as her siblings, Richard (Ellen) Chicos, Barbara Berg, Michael Chicos, and Nancy (Dave) Fisher; brother-in-law Joe Solberg, Jr., and many nieces, nephews, cousins and family friends.

Catherine was preceded in death by her husband Roger Solberg; daughter Joell Quiram; parents Raymond (Veronica) Chicos; mother-and-father-in-law Joseph (Alma) Solberg; sister and brother-in-law Agnes (Harold) Schroeder; and sisters-in-law Marilynn Chicos and Barbara Solberg.