Catherine M. Stein, formerly of Tamaroa

Catherine M. Stein, born Oct. 7, 1953, departed this world peacefully in her sleep on Oct. 6, 2021. Cathy was the second child of Lester and Dolores (Schneider) Stein of Tamaroa, Illinois.

Cathy was a genuinely unique person who paved her own way, first in the big city of Chicago with a career in pharmacy, and later with her many travels in the U.S. and abroad. She was sweet, kind, funny, loving and she will be dearly missed. For those whose lives she touched, they are better persons for it.

She is survived by her longtime companion Bernd Otte of Chicago. She is also survived by her five siblings, Paul (Julie) Stein of O'Fallon, Missouri, Peggy (John) Caraher of Ft. Myers, Florida, Danny Stein of Anna, Illinois, Linda (Allan) Campbell of Edwardsville, Illinois and Charles Stein of Tamaroa; and nieces and nephew Shannon Caraher of Chicago, and Alexander Stein and Mallory Stein, both of Tamaroa.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Nancy Sue Stein.

Lakeview Funeral Home oversaw the arrangements in Chicago.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tamaroa, with Fr. Carl Schrage officiating.

Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021 at the Searby Funeral Home in Tamaroa. Guests are asked to use social distancing guidelines, and everyone in attendance is required to wear a mask.

Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Tamaroa. Cathy will be laid to rest near her parents.

Friends are invited to make memorials to Masses or to the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, which will be accepted at the funeral home.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.