Catherine Irene Newman

Catherine Irene Newman (Ovik), a devoted wife, dedicated advocate, gifted artist, and lover of life, who left this world on February 16th, 2025. She departed peacefully, surrounded by the love and light of her family.

Born on April 20th, 1970 to Greg and Diane Ovik in Stockton, CA. Cathi lived in Blaine and graduated from Blaine High School. Attended St Cloud University before transferring to the University of Minnesota graduating with a Criminal Justice degree. She worked as a child protection officer for Chisago County and then a juvenile probation officer for Dakota County. She was a fierce advocate for the vulnerable, offering compassion, wisdom, and unwavering support to those who needed it most. In 2010, after her first breast cancer diagnosis, she retired to focus on her health and family.

Beyond her profession, Cathi was an artist at heart, finding beauty in the world around her. She expressed herself through painting and drawing capturing the essence of nature and human connection in every piece. She found joy in live music, her soul resonating with every note, and she was a dedicated rock collector, treasuring the earth’s gifts in all their forms.

Her love for nature was boundless—whether walking through the woods, feeling the rhythm of the ocean, or simply marveling at the interconnectedness of all creation. She believed deeply in the unity of life, seeing meaning and magic in every stone, every leaf, every heartbeat.

Cathi is survived by her husband, Tom, daughter Mckenzie, son Camden, parents Greg and Diane, Sister Jill (Dave), Father and Mother-in-law, Al and Sandy, Sister-in-laws, Gail (Peter), Brenda (Jason), and countless nieces and nephews as well as other extended family, all of whom carries her spirit forward.

In keeping with her desire to make a lasting impact, donations may be made in her name to the American Cancer Society.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens, located 9500 W River Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55444 on March 30th, 2025 from 1-5pm in an open house format.

Cathi’s light will never dim. Her love, art, and spirit will live on in every life she touched, in every song played, and in every stone found along the path.