During the heyday years of the Long Island Philharmonic, a week of rehearsals culminated in a trio of week end concerts.  Between Friday's dress rehearsal and its evening concert, a small group of orchestra members would gather for the "Supper Club".  Although management provided a bus to take the musicians to varied eating establishments, this ritual of gathering to share a meal remained during the lifetime of the orchestra.  It was an unofficial club, yet oddly we had officers which I can't recall were ever voted into office.  There we would share in musical and culinary camaraderie which forged lasting friendships.

Stories were shared, catching up, and solving the problems of the world while enjoying our meals with each other.  Invariably Cathy (each and every time) would make the most delicious tortellini salad and other gourmet concoctions, putting the rest of us to shame.  As soon as the forks were put down, Cathy would pick up her knitting needles without missing a beat.

Many wonderful times and warm memories of Cathy abound.  To her students, colleagues, friends and family she was a constant.  She was true north.  

A life well lived is one that touches many people.  A good life is a life of goodness.  This was something in which Cathy excelled.

How fortunate I am to have been there to share those times, to have known her, and to call her my friend.

She was a  sweetheart who loved teaching.She had a dry sense of humor.She will be missed.

Cathy was a light in a dark world, a friend to all whole knew her--She loved her work, her colleagues, her students and most of all her family. This is a sad day for all of us.  Her funny sweet personality will be sorely missed.

Cathy was a funny, no nonsense,  gal and a great colleague in the LI Phil. We shared many laughs about the early days of the NC Symphony where she played a couple of years after me. I was sorry to hear of her passing and send my condolences to her family. 

I was very lucky to play with Cathy in the viola section of the Long Island Philharmonic  for many years.  She was always there with a big smile and a wry comment or two about the day's goings on that lightened the mood.  She will be deeply missed.

Cathy was a good friend and colleague in the North Carolina Symphony way back in the early 70's. She was a fun-loving person with a great sense of humor and the kindest heart. She will always be remembered fondly by all of us here in North Carolina.
Jimmy Gilmore, Principal Clarinet (ret.), North Carolina Symphony

Cathy was a dear friend and colleague for 30 years where we shared great music making as members of the Long Island Philharmonic.  She was a treasured member of the orchestra who was dedicated to her craft, her colleagues and her beloved students. My condolences to her family.

I was privileged to know and play with Cathy in the Long Island Philharmonic for over 30 years. She was a lovely, kind and caring person, and we always had interesting conversations. She will be very much missed by her many friends, students, and colleagues. 

Cathy was my musical stand partner for numerous concerts throughout our many years playing in the Long Island Philharmonic. We shared intimate musical experiences as well as heartfelt personal confidences. Cathy was a compassionate, supportive, conscientious person dedicated to her music making and teaching. As both a friend and colleague, she will be missed.

Cathy was a fine musical colleague in the Long island Philharmonic for decades, where she was a member of the viola section. She was a friendly, supportive person, and shared many laughs with the other musicians including me. She was an asset, and although she never sought attention,  she made significant contributions musically and personally. A kind person who will be greatly missed.

My daughter Samara was a viola student of Cathy's from third grade until her senior year of high school when, with Cathy's help, she was selected to play in the all-state orchestra. Samara is now a music teacher, she had many wonderful music influences as she was growing up, with Cathy at the top of the list.

Your love of music and dedication to your craft will be missed.

Cathy was not only a talented musician, she was a loving and caring person., and devoted to her family. I was very blessed to be her friend for many years.

OBITUARY

Catherine J. Grimaldi

January 2, 1945 – August 28, 2017

O.B. Davis Funeral Homes - Miller Place

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