Cathi Jo Novotney

Cathi Jo Novotney, 69, passed away in her home after a courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2022. Christmas was her favorite day of the year and she was able to spend her remaining time with family enjoying the holiday season. Cathi was born on Nov. 14, 1953, in Lacrosse, Wis. She was the first of three children to parents Joanne and Lorin "Louie" Wuensch. Cathi loved growing up in Lacrosse and often shared fond childhood memories of life in a small town and the adventures that ensued with her sister and brother. She attended Central High School and graduated in 1971. During this time, she met the love of her life, Bernard "Butch" Novotney, and a new chapter in her life began. Cathi and Butch married in 1972 and their adventurous spirit led them north to Alaska to start their own life on Memorial Day weekend in 1973. In the following years, Cathi and Butch's family grew and they welcomed three children of their own: Amy Lynn, Kerry Jo and Stefan Alan. Cathi loved being a mother and created a life of excitement, support and wonder raising her kids. As time passed, she approached being a grandma and great grandma with the same level of passion and care. Her loving spirit stretched beyond her immediate family and many of her children's friends considered her to be a second mom of theirs. She loved so many and never hesitated to let someone know how she felt through kind words and thoughtful actions. Cathi was a wonderful wife, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and close friend to countless others. Her family was her highest priority and was happiest when surrounded by their love. She will be missed beyond measure and her spirit will carry on through those she held such a deep, meaningful connection with. She is survived by her husband, Butch Novotney; children, Amy Novotney (her children Kiara Honore with husband Kyree and their children Penelope and Roman, Amonte Dowl and Amiah Novotney), Kerry Muller (husband Simon and child Ivy) and Stefan Novotney (wife Lindsay and children Ivan, Oliver and Lucille); father, Lorin Wuensch; and siblings, Jennifer Whitman (husband Tim) and Erik Wuensch (wife Jeannette). She is preceded in death by her mother, Joanne Wuensch; aunt, Jean Groth (husband Roland); parents-in-laws, Robert and Betty Novotney; and numerous other family members who welcome her with open arms. In lieu of flowers, Cathi's family has requested that donations in honor of her legacy be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause that Cathi passionately supported for years. A ceremony will be held at Fox Hollow Chalet in Anchorage, Alaska, on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023, at 1 p.m.