Catherine Hendrickson

Catherine s. Hendrickson, 93, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away as we hope peacefully, Thursday morning, June 8, 2023 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Catherine was the 1st of 3 children born to Martha and Alonzo "Lon" (Butler) Sallee, she was born on November 26, 1929. Catherine was born on a farm. It was rough, she liked to talk about getting rides to school in a horse cart. She married her 1st husband, Jim, that was Maryann's father. Later, her life improved when she met her 2nd husband, Jerome Hendrickson, Sr, on January 7, 1950. She often talked about the differences between growing up too after she got married. After growing up poor, Mom often enjoyed coffee parties, getting her nails done, and the finer things in life. It goes to show you none of us have to stay where we started. She was a realtor for many years before retiring to take care of her last child in 1977. In her old age, Catherine was known as a feisty lady who loved debating politics.

Catherine is survived by her four children, Maryann Buenaventura, Jerome Hendrickson, Jr., Jeffrey L. Hendrickson, and Cathleen Ann Hendrickson; grandchildren, Mandy R. Buenaventura-Elizarraras, Cathleen Ann Spitson and Kelly Rixie; great-grandchildren, Erika Ann Santana, Eric J. Luviano, Joseph E. Hendrickson, Yasmine E. Hendrickson, Lupe Elizarraras, Max Elizarraras, Tommy Rixie, Jr.; great-great-grandchildren, Nathalia A. Perez-Santana, Cathalina E. Perez-Santana, and Andres E. Perez-Santana. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jerome Hendrickson, Sr.

Catherine Hendrickson is not gone, she will not be forgotten: she will live in our hearts and minds as we go on living our lives.