Cathy Sue Strobach

Cathy Sue Strobach, 75, of Kirkland, Ill., passed away Dec. 6, 2024, at Serenity Hospice and Home, Oregon, Ill. surrounded with the love and prayers of her family and friends.
Born July 24, 1949, in Lincoln, Neb., the daughter of John and Beverly (James) Zimmerman, Cathy was a 1967 graduate of Lincoln (Neb.) High School. She married Kurt Strobach on Oct. 1, 1988, in Algonquin, Ill.
Cathy was highly regarded in veterinarian and animal-rescue communities for her dedication to the non-profit Zoo's Ferret Sanctuary. She was founder and president, serving ferret families around the world for more than 28 years.
She always made time to help out members of the community and those in need. Being a great listener, she made people feel like they were her sole focus. Cathy was always loving, giving and enthusiastic. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. She was an involved Girl Scout leader, PTA mom, and member of her Congregational church. Cathy was a successful hairdresser with her own shop for many years. Her home was a place where people felt truly welcome and left in better spirits than when they arrived. She will be remembered for her phenomenal laugh and a smile that made everyone feel special.
Cathy is survived by her husband, Kurt; daughters, Carolyn (Christopher) Potts and Julie (Troy) Arneson; grandchildren, Emma and Matthew Conley and Ethan Potts, and Jacob and Kyle Arneson; step-grandchildren, Kyle and Sean Potts; brother, Carey (Linda) Zimmerman; and nieces, Kelly and Hannah Zimmerman; and June Hemmer, who was almost family, as well as being her professional work assistant, confidant and right hand.
She was predeceased by parents; and niece, Anne Zimmerman.
The family extends special thanks to Serenity Hospice and all the family and friends who provided love and support.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her name to Zoo's Ferret Sanctuary, 32291 Pearl St., Kirkland, IL 60146, or visithttps://sites.google.com/site/zoosferretsanctuary/donate to make a donation.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Olson's Quiram Sycamore Chapel, 1245 Somonauk St., Sycamore, IL 60178; 815-895-6589. Visit www.olsonfh.com to share a memory or leave a condolence.