Cathy was born April 30, 1944 in Nacogdoches, Texas to August and Violet Balzer. As a young woman, she was very active in Girl Scouts and developed a strong love for reading. In 1966, she graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in English Literature and minor in Theatre. It was in college that she joined Gamma Phi Beta, a sisterhood that bore many special friendships throughout her life – especially through the Houston Alumnae Chapter and the Houston Alumnae Panhellenic Association.
In 1970, Cathy married Joseph E. Lorino. Shortly thereafter they started a family to whom she devoted herself wholeheartedly. She had dinner on the table every evening at 6, managed the books for Joe’s dental practice, and was an avid volunteer in her children’s schools. Cathy did everything that she could to support her husband and her children’s education, talents, and happiness.
In addition to her commitment to her family, Cathy dedicated herself to helping others. She developed a passion for providing support and guidance to individuals with learning differences and their families. She worked, volunteered, and assumed many leadership roles with the Neuhaus Education Center and the Houston Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. In 2010, she was recognized by her colleagues and dear friends for her many years of service when she received the Nancy LaFevers Community Service Award.
Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, August and Violet Balzer. She is survived and dearly missed by her loyal husband Joseph of 48 years, her children Michael (Amy), Susan (John), and Amy. She is also lovingly remembered by her granddaughters Ashley and Allison, by her sister Ann (Kent), by her nephew Scott (Lisa), by her niece Cathleen (Bill), and by cousins and countless friends.
As one of her dear friends said so well, “Cathy leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and deep commitment to making others lives better”.
A celebration of Cathy’s life will be held at 11am on Monday, November 19th at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 4525 Bissonnet Street.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Cathy may be made to the MD Anderson Nellie B. Connally Breast Center.
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