Mary Catherine "Cathy" Ross

Mary Catherine Ross (Cathy), 82, of Wayzata, MN died Thursday October 30, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital St. Marys Campus.

Cathy was born November 21,1942, in Milaca, MN to Robert and Gretchen (Morneau) Folsom of Ogilvie, MN. She graduated from Ogilvie High School in 1960 and went on to attend the College of St. Benedict in Collegeville, MN earning her teaching degree in 1964. Post graduation she worked as an elementary school teacher in the Excelsior, MN school district.

Cathy married her college sweetheart, David Ross, in 1965. They settled in St. Cloud, MN where they raised their three children Nicole, Tony, and Mark. Although Cathy was not officially teaching during this time, she volunteered at a literacy program to help adults struggling with reading and writing. In her 40s Cathy returned to school and attained her Early Child Parent Education Certification. She was enthusiastic about helping parents understand and bond with their children.

Cathy had a vibrant spirit and passion for life that was felt in all she did. She adored tennis and golf, and later bridge and traveling. Her Westie dogs were constant companions as her kids left home – and were affectionately spoiled. She treasured time spent with her husband and family in Palm Springs, and their cabin in Brainerd. Her ultimate joy came from the people she held close. She was a fiercely dedicated mother and loyal friend. She had a gift for connecting quickly and forming deep, lasting relationships. Her radiant energy and zest for life are an enormous and profound loss.

Cathy is survived by her husband David of Wayzata, MN her daughter, Nicole (Galen) of St. Paul and their children (Jasmyne, Connor, Riley, Katla), her son Tony (Rachel) of Maple Grove, MN and their children (Ella, Henry), and son Mark (Shannon) of Maple Grove, MN and their child (Adyson). Siblings Paul, Robert (Rannae), Margaret (Patrick), and many loving nieces and nephews.

Cathy's Celebration of Life will be held at 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm on her birthday, November 21, at The Hotel Landing in Wayzata, MN. Memorial donations in Cathy's honor may be made to Mayo Clinic in support of amyloidosis or cancer research at mayoclinic.org.