Catherine T. Wear, 91, passed away on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Friendship Manor in Rock Island, IL. Per her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and there will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Inurnment at Pine Hill Cemetery, Davenport. Memorials may be made to Friendship Manor.

Cathy was born on April 11, 1933 to Richard and Emily (Sutphin) Heeschen in Harvey, IL. She grew up in Homewood, IL and after high school attended Augustana College earning a Bachelor's Degree in Education. She taught fifth grade in Knoxville, IL where she met her husband. Cathy was united in marriage to Willie "Earl" Wear on August 9, 1958. The couple later relocated to Davenport, IA where they made their home and raised their three children.

Cathy taught 5th grade English until her children were born. She loved to read, and instilled the joy of the written word in her children by reading to them daily. As her children grew up, Cathy started tutoring children with disabilities in their homes for several years before opening the Raggedy Ann and Andy Preschool.

Music was an important part of Cathy's life. She loved playing both the piano and organ. Cathy would play during church and often accompanied soloists for contest pieces. She also played handbells, leading the Bell Choir at Christ Methodist Church for many years, and later at the Center for Active Seniors. Cathy and Earl were avid square and round dancers, attending weekly dances and exhibitions around the state. Cathy was quite gifted and was rumored to "float like an angel" when she danced.

Cathy greatly enjoyed traveling and the outdoors. The family visited countless state and national parks, historic landmarks, and natural attractions. Family activities were relished, and she delighted in her children and grandchildren. Euchre became a family tradition, a game that Cathy also played at Friendship Manor where she was a beloved resident. She will be remembered as a devoted mother and grandmother who was always very involved and supporting in the lives of her children and grandchildren.

Cathy is survived by her children, Rebecca (Brian) Clarkin, Brenda Bertrand, and William (Beth) Wear; grandchildren, Jeremy, Michael, Meghan, Nicolas, Matthieu, Rebecca, Jessica, Daniel, and Patrick; seventeen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and siblings, Elizabeth Raley and David Heeschen.

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