Cathy Bernhauser

Cathy Bernhauser, of Forest City, passed away on May 4, 2026.

Cathy's last days were spent being loved, adored and doted upon by the staff helping care for her and also by her devoted husband, family, and countless friends.

Cathy was born in 1948. After graduating high school, Cathy pursued a Nursing career to follow her passion of helping people. While completing her college years, she began studying the Bible. After becoming one of Jehovah's Witnesses, Cathy decided to continue pursuing her love of helping others. She has volunteered her time over the last 50 years to teach people the Bible truths that she fell in love with. Hoping this could provide others a positive outlook and some hope in their lives through the scriptures. Cathy was a member of the Carbondale Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. Cathy loved everything natural and healthy; but she had a weakness for chocolate, ice cream and JAX cheese curls. She wasn't the best cook (often would set off the smoke detectors, lol), but she baked the best loaded chocolate macadamia nut cookies. She would make these often for anyone who might need some comfort. Along with the cookies, they might receive a card which was most likely hand made or in the least had something written that was personal and heartfelt for that specific someone. And if the weather was right, her favorite thing to do was go swimming. Cathy loved the water and would finish many summer days doing laps at her favorite swimming hole.

Cathy was a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Being a grandmother was something that filled her heart with so much joy and love like she had never expected.

Cathy is survived by her husband of 54 years, David; her daughter; two grandchildren; and one great granddaughter.

Per Cathy’s request, there will be no viewing or memorial services. Cathy will forever be in our hearts. Goodbye is only temporary. "We'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when, but I know we'll meet again some sunny day." -To my dear Cathy, I'll always love you...David

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to the Kevin M. Lesjack Funeral Home, 513 Main Street, Forest City.

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