Eugene Francis "Gene" Catagnus

Eugene "Gene" Francis Catagnus, 93, husband of Jean M. (Cappiella) Catagnus, passed away peacefully at his home in West Norriton on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Gene lived a long life defined by integrity, reliability, and deep care for others. He was the son of the late Benjamin and Philomena (Rose) Catagnus and was born in 1932, one of thirteen children. After serving in the United States Navy as a photographer during the Korean War, he returned home and turned his focus to building - a family, a career, and a life rooted in community. He graduated from Ursinus College while raising his young family and working full time at Ridge Pike Lumber then Volpe Express, where he ultimately retired.

He was not a man of grand gestures, but of steady presence, someone people depended on and trusted. Always willing to lend a hand, Gene could often be found repairing or fixing things for friends and family who relied on his knowledge, skills, and above all, his dependability.

Weekends were centered around family. You could find Gene in the stands cheering on his grandchildren at their basketball games, helping his sons manicure their lawns, and taking out the love of his life, Jean, for food shopping and dinner. Sundays were especially cherished. After church, Gene helped his wife prepare a feast while watching the Eagles with his sons and grandchildren, whom he adored. He also treasured his friendship with Raymond Damiani, his best friend of 80+ years, with whom he spent Thursday nights sharing good food and conversation.

Gene was a longtime member of the Lions Club in East Norriton where he held several officer positions over the years, and he also served as an East Norriton Committeeman. A man of strong faith, he was a devoted and longtime member of Visitation Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Eagleville.

Surviving him are his wife of 69 years, Jean; his sons Eugene Catagnus Jr., husband of Charlotte, and Paul Catagnus, husband of Susan; his siblings Frank Catagnus (Mildred), James Catagnus (Sidney), Richard Catagnus (Patricia), Charles Catagnus (Dortha), Arlene Catagnus, and Robert Catagnus; his grandchildren Christian Catagnus, husband of Shelby, Courtney Edens, wife of Richard, and Casey Dougherty, wife of Ryan; and his great-granddaughter Maeve Dougherty. He is predeceased by his siblings Nancy, Phillip, Mary, Gerald, Benjamin, and Johnny.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00AM at Visitation Blessed Virgin Mary Church (196 N Trooper Rd, Eagleville, PA 19403) with Fr. Bob officiating. Interment will follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery Mausoleum in Norristown. A visitation will also be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 9:00AM-10:45AM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Visitation Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Gene's name.