Catherine Louise Ochs

Catherine Louise Ochs, 96 of Traverse City passed away at Traverse Manor on October 5, 2017 with family at her side. Catherine was born on August 10, 1921 in Witt, Illinois to the late Tony and Mary (Verricker) Sellett. She and her 3 siblings were raised by her father and grandmother following Mary's premature death. The family moved to Charleston, IL where Catherine attended college at Eastern Illinois University and earned a teaching certificate. Her first employment was in a one room schoolhouse in Atwood, IL. She travelled with friends to Decatur on weekends for church and social activities, where she met Howard S. Ochs. They were married at St. Charles Catholic Church in Charleston by Father Moriarty on December 5, 1953. After marriage they lived in Decatur, where Catherine taught second grade in the public schools, and had her only child in 1955. She finished her Bachelor of Science by commuting to EIU. Her career and life trajectory was altered by Howard's death in 1967. She worked hard to maintain their home in Decatur, close contact with her siblings and their families, and focus on Deb's education. In her spare time she enjoyed collecting ceramics. At flea markets she eagerly looked for the most neglected treasure to restore. She liked gardening, spending time outside and enjoying the sunshine. She was talented at repurposing things and will be remembered for her thriftiness. In 1996 she moved to Traverse City to be near family. She enjoyed participating in her grandsons' educational and sporting activities. Whoever sat next to Catherine was bound to share some of their life history. Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, husband, siblings Dr. Thomas Sellett, Dr. Charles Sellett and Miss Josephine Sellett; and nephew Stephen Sellett. Catherine is survived by her daughter Dr. Deborah Ochs (Dr. Richard Kosinski); grandsons Ben Kosinski and Sam Kosinski; sister-in-law Norma (Charles) Sellett; nephews Michael Sellett, Dr. Thomas (Sandy) Sellett, Dr. John (Julianna) Sellett; nieces Laura Sellett and Elizabeth Sellett. Catherine’s life will be celebrated on Sunday, October 15, 2017 from 2 to 4pm. A service of prayers will be held at 2pm at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Catherine will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband Howard at Calvary Cemetery in Decatur, IL on Tuesday October 17, 2017 at 10:30 am. Memorial contributions in memory of Catherine may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your condolences and memories with the family. The family is being cared for by Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Catherine Louise Ochs

August 10, 1921 - October 5, 2017