Catherine Ann Overbaugh

Catherine Ann Overbaugh, 76, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, following a six-year battle with cancer. She was born on November 14, 1949, in Le Mars, Iowa, to Lawrence and Helen Ruth Fickel. After high school, Cathy attended the University of Northern Iowa and Iowa State University, graduating with a degree in elementary education. She later received her master’s degree in education from Viterbo University. Cathy taught 4th and 5th grade at North Polk Community School District for 28 years. After her retirement in 2010, she continued her teaching career as a substitute up until the time of her illness. A devoted educator, Cathy found great meaning in her work, cherishing the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives.

On June 7, 1969, Cathy married the love of her life, Al, and together they spent the next 57 years creating a wonderful life and family. She especially treasured her role as ‘Nana’ to her grandchildren and took great pride in watching them take part in their sports and activities. Cathy’s warmth, thoughtfulness and dedication in creating so many wonderful memories and lasting traditions for her family, especially around holidays and important life events, will be a legacy that endures for generations to come.

Cathy also enjoyed a vibrant social life and loved getting together with friends for bridge and other card games. These friendships filled her life with happiness, laughter and love. She will be remembered for her compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to family and friends. Cathy was a proud member of Ankeny Presbyterian Church since 1978 and was actively involved with their children’s program throughout the years. She believed strongly in giving back to her community and in the importance of random acts of kindness.

Cathy is survived by her devoted husband, Alvin Overbaugh, and will be lovingly remembered by her children, Jennifer Slauson of Waukee and Jeremy (Julie) Overbaugh of Ankeny, along with eight grandchildren (Katie, Ty, Chris, Emily, Nick, Cameron, Nolan, and Jack) and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two brothers, Steve Fickel of Cedar Rapids and Gary (Diane) Fickel of Iowa City. Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Helen Ruth Fickel.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM on Thursday, September 17th at Ankeny Presbyterian Church. A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM on Friday September 18th at the Ankeny Presbyterian Church followed by a light lunch. She will be laid to rest at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Cathy’s family welcomes donations in her memory to Make-A-Wish Iowa, the Child Life Program at Blank Children’s Hospital and Ankeny Presbyterian Church.