Cathi Sue Slater

Cathi Sue Slater, Age 74, died peacefully in a home full of laughter, surrounded by her husband and children on December 18th, 2023 after a courageous battle with lupus and cancer. Cathi was born on May 29th, 1949 in Brazil, Indiana to John and Daisy Baker (Jenkins). She was then raised in New Buffalo, Michigan, growing up to always love the water. The vast expanse of Lake Michigan inspired her to broaden her horizons, where she left to attend flight attendant school in the hopes of seeing the world. Instead she met her own world in the form of her husband John Slater in Fort Riley, Kansas. He swept her off her feet, having to use only the assistance of an adorable puppy—the rest being history. Cathi is survived by her husband John of 55 years of marriage and their nine sons and one daughter; Kelly, Shannon, Shawn, Kevin, Shad, Kyle, Shem, Kurtis, Shea, and Kristina. Daughter-in-laws Chelsea, Jill, Nickie, Samy, Melissa, and Martina. As well as grandchildren Darian, Maggie, Wren, Kaden, Alexis, Conner, Johnny, Haven, Jonah, David, Aaron, Monica, Marian, Helena, Peter, Regina, Elyza, Anakin, Emilia, Rorik, Ophelia, Dahlia, Adeline, Anorah, and Dodge. She also had the pleasure of welcoming great-grandchildren Sasha and Justice. She is survived by siblings Carolyn, Shirley, Michael, Linda, and John. Along with many more. First and foremost: Cathi wanted to be a mother. From the time she could walk she had a child on her hip, starting with her younger siblings—then proceeding to her own children, grandchildren, and eventually great-grandchildren. There was nothing that could bring a smile more quickly to her face than a baby grinning back at her. Cathi radiated pride and joy for her children, making sure through compassion and hard work that they grew up to know that with a mother’s love they could achieve greatness. Her passions in music, medicine, and poetry helped shape them into who they are today. Never a day would go by where they couldn’t reach out to her for help. Cathi would always be there to lend a wise, calming ear. Her compassion towards her children and ensuring they lived the best life possible—even if it were a life she could never have, would always be her greatest strength. Cathi will always be remembered as the woman who would sit for hours upon hours listening to the same songs because she found a meaning in them that uplifted her spirit. She could watch a film over and over again, laughing or crying at the same spots because they never ceased to move her. A woman who could joke about not having the energy or spoons left, yet still managed to show up for her family when it mattered. A woman who would sing you to sleep with sad songs that would make you cry—as love songs often do, but let you know through her voice that you were cherished beyond words. A woman that fought a disease for years upon years so that she didn’t have to leave the ones she loved behind, shielding them from knowing her suffering. A woman who gave so much to this world and was so loved in return. Cathi touched many hearts and the loss will forever ache. She was never afraid of death, though she had a strong passion for life. Her spirituality was what always helped get her through the tough times. Without a sliver of a doubt, Cathi is with the angels now. Family and friends are invited to attend services on December 27th, 2023. The visitation will be held at the Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints: 17606 Spaulding Street Omaha, NE 68116 from 9:00-11:00 AM. The ceremony will be held at the church at 11:00 AM, with the graveside service to follow at 1:30 PM at Omaha National Cemetery: 14250 Schram Rd. Omaha, NE 68138. Loved ones are encouraged to wear bright colors, as Cathi would never want sadness or mourning as those she cherished most celebrated the wondrous years we had her on this earth.

Cathi Sue Slater

May 29, 1949 - December 18, 2023