Catherine Ellen Bertling

Born on June 5, 1965, in Beaumont, Texas, Catherine was the second youngest of five children. She and her younger sister, Barbara, were affectionately known as "the little ones." Catherine’s early life was marked by frequent moves, including stints in Pasadena, Texas, and Oklahoma, before the family settled in Lampasas, Texas, in 1978. It was here, on her first day of 8th grade, that she met her lifelong best friend, Julie Bucek (Martin). During her school years in Lampasas, Catherine forged many lifelong friendships that she cherished throughout her life. At Lampasas High School, Catherine was an active student, running track and playing on the varsity basketball team, graduating in 1983.

After high school, Catherine moved to Houston, where she attended San Jacinto College to pursue her associate's degree. While balancing school and work as a receptionist at Ratcliffe Materials, she met her husband, Roger Bertling. The couple was married on June 29, 1985, in Houston, Texas. Catherine’s professional journey took her to roles in the administrative field, working for prominent families like the Waltrips of SCI, the Friedkin family of Gulf States Toyota, and C. Selzers & Sons (later known as Ferguson Enterprises).

Catherine and Roger settled in Woodforest, where they spent many years growing their family business, exploring outdoor adventures like water skiing and snow skiing, and building lasting memories together. In 1993, Catherine gave birth to her daughter, Katie, a moment that filled her heart with joy and love. In 1998, the family moved to Humble, Texas, where Catherine worked as a recruiter for Aramark Refreshment Services. During this time, she returned to school at night, earning her bachelor’s degree in Business from LeTourneau University.

An incredibly devoted mother, Catherine was always involved in Katie’s activities and ensured she stayed busy with sports. She would often mention to people, “a busy kid is a good kid”. Catherine frequently traveled across the state and country to support Katie’s passion for softball and volleyball.

When the family wasn’t on the go, they cherished downtime at their getaway in Port O'Connor, Texas, where they made countless family memories. While Catherine wasn’t an avid fisherman, she loved hearing stories about the fish Roger and Katie caught. Catherine was also a passionate reader, particularly enjoying historical non-fiction about the royal family and prominent American figures. Always fashionable, she had a love for shopping.

In 2007, Catherine left Aramark to take on a CFO position at Best Redi Mix, the family business. There, she used her expertise in human resources to help the company grow, eventually earning additional HR certifications from Rice University. She and Roger worked side by side for over a decade, expanding Best Redi Mix to three locations and over 100 employees. Working with Roger and helping him grow the business was one of the most joyous times in her life.

Catherine was a passionate philanthropist, dedicating her time to the National Charity League, where she and Katie were active members. Catherine served as President of the NCL Lake Houston Chapter from 2010 to 2011 and was deeply involved in volunteering and giving back to her community.

In 2014, Catherine and Roger moved to Rice Village in Houston. They both embraced city life and enjoyed exploring new restaurants, playing tennis and golf, and embarking on new adventures. Catherine retired from Best Redi Mix in 2017, and the couple sold the business in 2018. In retirement, Catherine traveled to England, North Carolina, and Big Bend National Park, enjoying the freedom to explore new places.

In July of 2021, Catherine was overjoyed with the birth of her first grandchild, Olivia. The bond they shared was special, filled with music, dancing, and play. In March of 2023, Catherine welcomed her second grandchild, Carson, and her playful, silly side brought endless laughter to his life. Catherine loved being called “Cici” by her grandchildren, a name that reflected her warm and loving spirit. Catherine was a woman of kindness, generosity, and vitality. She loved fiercely and was loyal to her family and friends. Above all, she cherished her roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Catherine’s love for Roger was unwavering, and she always treasured the time they spent together. As a mother, she supported Katie in every way, proud of her daughter’s achievements. Her grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she adored being a constant presence in their lives.

Catherine’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be remembered for her boundless love, vibrant spirit, and the many lives she touched with her kindness and devotion. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Catherine is preceded in death by her father Charles Whiteside, mother Hope Malcom, and father-in-law John Dee Bertling. She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Roger Bertling; her daughter, Katie (Cameron) Powney and her two grandchildren, Olivia Catherine Powney (4) and Carson Brian Powney (2). She is also survived by her sisters, Patricia Whiteside, Mary (Perry) Cruthirds, Barbara (Kevin) Lackie; her brother John (Delores) Whiteside and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home, located at 18000 Interstate 45 South, The Woodlands, Texas, 77384. The service is scheduled for September 27, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm in the Grand Hall.

Following the service, a catered reception will take place at the same location, in the R.L. Wood room, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.