Catherine A. "Kitty" Gatton

Catherine A. Gatton, lovingly known as "Kitty," passed away surrounded by family and love. Born to William J. Reif (d. 1943) and Veronica M. Reif (d. 1993), Kitty brought joy to all who knew her.

On July 20, 1957, she married the love of her life, Jack P. Gatton, in Portland, Oregon. Together, they built a beautiful life until Jack's passing on February 18, 2020. Their union was blessed with four children and their spouses: Jeff and Anna Gatton; Bob and Aline Gatton; Lori Ann Gatton (who passed January 18, 1965); and Sandy and Tony Creach. Kitty's legacy extended to her eight grandchildren—Bobby Jr., Cody, Courtney, Dallas, Ashleigh, Arielle, T.J., and Adam—and an incredible 23 great-grandchildren as well as her very special nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved great-grandson, Aaron Gatton, in November 2020.

She was preceded in death by her dear sisters, Margaret Smith, Theresa Seiffert, Gert Stark, and Barbara Rogers, all of whom she missed profoundly. What an amazing reunion they are having.

Family was her greatest joy, but Kitty's love extended to her four-legged friends. Her passion for animals once led her to work at an animal shelter in San Mateo, where her big heart often resulted in her bringing dogs home before they were put down. Kitty and Jack lived in several states—Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona—but called California home for most of their years. Her last years were spent on her daughter Sandy's property in Sutter Creek, where she remained close to loved ones.

Casinos were Kitty's favorite pastime, and she relished the thrill of a good slot machine. Her giving and loving spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kitty's warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.