Catherine Josephine Tendler

Born on February 10, 1952, in Brooklyn, New York, to Joseph and Catherine Schmitt, Catherine spent her life caring for others, both professionally and personally. She dedicated her career to nursing, spending many years as a behavioral health nurse practitioner before retiring in 2022. Her compassion, strength, and steady presence made a lasting impact on the lives of her patients and colleagues.

Catherine, affectionately known as "Danda" to her grandchildren, found her greatest joy in spending time with her family—especially her cherished grandsons, Ben and Lukas. She also loved reading, crossword puzzles, and sharing funny and meaningful moments with those she loved. Known for her sharp wit, clever sarcasm, and impeccable timing, Catherine’s sense of humor brought laughter and light to every room she entered. Her words were thoughtful, her jokes always spot-on, and her perspective both grounding and refreshingly candid.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Steve, and her parents. Catherine is survived by her daughter Layla and son-in-law Stephen, her son Joe, her grandsons Ben and Lukas, her sisters Pat and Barbara, and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and lifelong friends who will remember her warmth, wisdom, and wit.

A celebration of Catherine’s life will be held on Saturday, May 10, at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood, followed by a repast at her home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a charity of your choosing in Catherine’s honor.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and often quoted.