Cathy Handley

Cathy was born to Bill & Mildred Meheden on November 29, 1949 and raised in the Sunnyside area. She attended school in Sunnyside and Kate Andrews High School in Coaldale.

On August 10, 1968 she married Roger Handley and together they had two sons, Mike and Brad. Cathy graduated from the St. Michaels School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1971 and enjoyed 40 years as a public health nurse. She especially loved the baby visits. She was also well respected at the flu clinics with many passing up their place in the line up so that they could get their flu shot from Cathy.

Cathy was somewhat technology challenged, and between her and Donna Strate, they had the IT people on speed dial and needed their help quite often. It is rumored that when they both retired the IT people had quite the celebration.

In addition to helping with the boys’ sports functions and Handley family volunteer endeavors, she assisted in the revitalization of the Coaldale Kinette Club and was honored with a Life Membership in 1990 for outstanding contribution to her club and community.

Although Cathy enjoyed their many vacations in the US, Caribbean & Panama, spending time at their RV at the CWR Boat Club by Cowley was her favorite. Her favorite motto was “I would rather be lost at the lake than found at home”.

Cathy is survived by her husband Roger, son Mike, grandson Beckett Handley, daughter-in-law Corie Handley, sisters Rita (Brian) Williamson and Maureen (Will) Larson, brother-in-law Ron Handley, and sister-in-law Melody Shologan.

She was predeceased by her son Brad, parents Bill & Mill, parents-in-law Les & Phyllis Handley.

Cathy wanted to share a few of her favorite sayings: “And if I go, while I’m still here… know that I live on, vibrating to a different measure – behind a thin veil you cannot see through. You will not see me, so you must have faith, I wait for the time when we can soar together again, both aware of each other. Until then, live your life to its fullest. And when you need me, just whisper my name in your heart,… I will be there”

“Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable or happy & strong. The amount of work is the same.”

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways – Chardonnay in one hand, chocolate in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming, Woo Hoo.”

In lieu of a celebration of life, Cathy requested that you buy your loved one a rose, turn on some Beach Boys songs & have a toast in her memory.