Catherine Ann Kurek

Catherine Ann Kurek, known fondly as Cathie, gracefully departed this world on September 13, 2023, in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was born on March 2, 1948, in Caracas, Venezuela, to the late Franko and Matrona (Orchenske) Benko. Catherine is preceded in death by her father, mother, brother Andrew Benko, and granddaughter Jessica Kurek.

Cathie, a true force of nature, bravely endured and triumphed over a traumatic brain injury sustained in 1975. She conquered it with such determination and pride that she could write a book about it! A proud master of pierogi making and a lover of her Ukrainian heritage, Cathie truly knew how to mix the perfect blend of resilience and cultural flair.

Cathie is survived by her daughter, Melissa Kurek of Lincoln, NE, and her granddaughter, Justine George of San Diego, CA; her son, Michael Kurek (Michelle Russell) of Litchfield Park, AZ, and grandson, Aaron Kurek of San Diego, CA; and her daughter, Diana Hertzog (Sue Hertzog) of Allentown, PA, and grandson, Cody Kurek. She is also survived by her brother John Benko (Kathy Benko) of Chino, CA, and sister Maria Benko of Denver, CO.

Throughout her life, Cathie embraced various roles, including being a skilled homemaker, an award-winning Avon Lady, and a compassionate senior caregiver. In her leisure time, Catherine found solace in the pages of romance novels, indulging in yarn crafts, and listening to the enchanting melodies of Johnny Mathis. With each page turned, each stitch woven, and each note played, she embraced her passions with a twinkle in her eye and a smile on her face.

To celebrate Cathie's life journey, a ceremony will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, located at 6800 S. 14th Street, Lincoln, NE 68512. The compassionate team at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home in Lincoln, NE, is honored to assist the family during this time.