It is with great sadness that the family of Catherine (Kay) Elizabeth Sherman announce her passing on April 10th, 2018 at the age of 93.
Kay will be lovingly remembered by her children Barb, Debbie (Travis), Cindy (Robert) and Patrick (Teri). She will also be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Tiffany, Jessica, Kristina, Jacob and Matthew and great-grandchildren, Skye and Max.
Kay was an adventurous, kind and generous woman who was loved deeply. She truly was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, nurse and friend.
Kay’s story began on September 16th, 1924 in Great Falls, Montana where she was born to John and Eunice Olson. After graduating from high school in Polson, she attended nursing school at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham, Washington.
In 1948, with a thirst for adventure, Kay accepted an invitation from Barbara VanBrocklin, a friend from nursing school, to move to Cordova, Alaska to work at the hospital. Much to her family’s surprise, she boarded her first flight and began the adventure of a lifetime.
Shortly after her arrival, Kay was introduced to William (Bill) Sherman and they were married on May 7th, 1949 at St. George’s Episcopal Church. The couple enjoyed Cordova’s social scene, playing cards and basketball, dancing, and skiing. They were part owners of the Club Enterprises which included the Prince William Motel, the Club Bar and Restaurant and the Club Bowl. They raised four children together and always made time for fun adventures such as berry picking, ice skating, and picnicking
Although Kay is mostly known for her work as a nurse, she was also a dental assistant, worked in the clam cannery and at Orca Cannery where she took a boat to work every day before the road was built.
When Kay first arrived in Cordova, the hospital was located in the Prince William Motel building. She lived on the first floor, making it convenient to ski home after a day on the slopes of Mt. Eyak. Kay took on many roles at the hospital including staff nurse, director of nursing, and x-ray technician. She did everything from helping injured pets to helping deliver babies, including two of her grandchildren. She even delivered a baby on her own when the doctor on call wasn’t able to be reached.
Kay was a kind and compassionate caregiver, which made her an excellent nurse. Her grandchildren feel lucky that when she retired in 1986, it was to become a full-time grandma.
An avid Wolverine fan, Kay never missed a sporting event or any other activity featuring one of her grandkids. She showed her love through handwritten cards and by baking sweet treats for her family and friends to enjoy.
Kay’s grandchildren truly were her heart and joy and were the people she loved the most. Upon her passing, her family discovered that her locked safe was stuffed full of every card and note that she had received from her grandkids. This truly highlights what she valued most in her life.
A celebration of life for Kay will be held on Saturday July 28th from 2-4 p.m. in the Cordova Center Atrium. Please join Kay’s family to share memories and enjoy some of her favorite things – coffee, chocolate and quality time with family and friends.
