CATHERINE STERNITZKY
CATHERINE STERNITZKY
Catherine Sternitzky, 91, peacefully entered into the arms of the Lord March 9, 2025. She was born Oct. 10, 1933, in Frederick, WI, and lived a life filled with faith, love and service. After she graduated from Bethany Lutheran High School in 1951 in Mankato, MN, she attended nurses training in Milwaukee, WI, where she worked at Oconomowoc Hospital. Not long after, she married Jacob Frick in 1955 in Watertown, WI, and gave birth to five of her children, John, Tom, Dan, Mary and Grace. After Jacob Frick went to be with the Lord in 1966, Catherine remarried in 1968 to Warren Sternitzky in Granton, WI, and gave birth to two more of her children, Laura and Andrew. Catherine remained widowed after the passing of her husband, Warren Sternitzky, in 2003.
A devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church for many years, Catherine Sternitzky dedicated her life to serving others through spreading the Lord’s word and countless acts of kindness. Whether assisting with vacation Bible school, preparing meals for those in need through the Ladies Aid or offering a listening ear, loving smile and a warm heart, she was a pillar of faith and compassion in her community.
Beyond her work in the church, Catherine was a loving sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She found joy in a multitude of ways, always sharing her wisdom and warmth with those around her. She loved traveling, looking up at the heavens, and watching the waves ripple across the water. Christmas remained her favorite holiday, as her giving spirit never turned down the chance to spread God’s word. Oftentimes Catherine could be found knitting in her recliner when she wasn’t picking weeds or pruning her flower beds. She was known for her green thumb, and her love of flowers brought joy to many seeing the bright colors all year round. Her sweet tooth was a force to be reckoned with, whether it was pudding, ice cream or cookies. Her sweet personality was always reinforced with a treat. Her unwavering faith and generosity touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of kindness and devotion
As Catherine’s needs increased, she was watched over and welcomed with open arms into the household of her granddaughter, Marie (Mike) Rattle and family. They all had a special bond, and we thank them for their dedication to making Catherine’s life as comfortable as possible.
Catherine is survived by her brother James (Carol) Golisch of Westfield, WI; children John (Gina) Frick of Belton, TX, Tom Frick of Birchwood, WI, Dan (Teresa) Frick of Granton, WI, Grace (Jeff/Iggy) Ignatowski of Pittsville, WI, and Laura (Mike) Goergen of Marathon, WI; brother-in-law Robert Bugge of Lansdale, PA; along with 10 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren as well as a host of dear friends and her cherished church family.
Catherine was preceded in death by her parents; siblings John (Joan) Golisch, David (Janet) Golisch, Mary Huges and Ruth Bugge; and children Andrew Sternitzky and Mary Frick.
The family would like to acknowledge and thank all of the caregivers at Wells, hospice care and House of the Dove in helping prepare Catherine for her journey to the Lord.
A celebration of Catherine Sternitzky’s life will be held at Zion Lutheran in Granton, WI, at 11:30 a.m. Monday, March 17, 2025, with a service led by Pastor Schoessow. Public visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday morning at the church. A lunch will follow.
Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.
The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Catherine’s family with funeral arrangements.