Catherine M. Cantu

October 1961 ~ July 2020

Catherine M. Cantu passed away at home in Turlock, CA on July 20, 2020 at the age of 58 following a short battle with cancer.

Cathy was born in Los Angeles, CA. As a child her family moved to Livingston, CA where she was raised and graduated from high school. She was married to Servando (Sandy) Cantu for 33 years. She and her son Michael joined Sandy, who was in the military, in England and they traveled all over Europe for four years. Upon returning to California Catherine went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from CSU Stanislaus graduating Summa Cum Laude on June 3, 2000. She went on to become a Special Education teacher for Empire Unified School District and taught for 14 years until her retirement in June 2019.

Catherine is survived by her husband Sandy, son Michael Schalk from Quartzsite, AZ and step-daughter Tina (Rob) Hanson from Belfair, WA. She is survived also by 7 beloved siblings, 2 grandchildren, and 15 nieces and nephews. Catherine is preceded in death by her father Judge Walter C. Lane, mother Shirley Lane, step-mother Ella Lane, step-son Jason Cantu, and nephew Richard Pon.

A private graveside service is planned for Catherine at a later date at Denair Cemetery. If desired, friends may make a memorial contribution to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences(7)

Amy Phillips says
August 7, 2020 at 2:09 am

I worked with Catherine for many years at the Empire Union School District. She was always so friendly,had a dry sense of humor and was down to business with her students. I am so sorry for her loss and know that she will be very missed.
Amy Phillips says
August 7, 2020 at 2:09 am

I worked with Catherine for many years at the Empire Union School District. She was always so friendly,had a dry sense of humor and was down to business with her students. I am so sorry for her loss and know that she will be very missed.
Victoria Razo-Mendoza says
August 7, 2020 at 1:19 am

Cathy was so down-to-earth, funny and wise, and such a hard worker. We worked together for 10 years at Empire Elementary. I always valued her advice when I had questions about student behavior. I didn’t know she was so ill recently, however I’m glad she is no longer in pain and at peace now.
I will miss your laugh, Cathy!
Gail Harvey says
August 6, 2020 at 4:52 am

Dear Friend, I’m grateful for our friendship, your unwavering support, your words of wisdom, and your laughter.

Until we meet again, I’ll carry my memories in my heart.

Wishing Samdy & your son and daughter, as well as your syblings and friends peace and comfort.

You’ll be dearly missed.
Alma Cantu-Benavides says
August 1, 2020 at 7:56 pm

I will miss you Cathy so very much . When we talked we not only shared stories, trials, experiences etc (I also work in education) we laughed and cried. We could talk for hours. I will miss your laugh so so much Love you Cathy You will be dearly missed by all
Donna Ellenberger says
August 1, 2020 at 7:18 pm

I considered Cathy as one of my very dear friends. She was a wonderful person, funny plus full of love and affection for all around her. She will be missed terribly.. However now she can rest in peace and without any more pain. She is with our heavenly father and keeping watch over her loved ones. We Love Ya Cathy..
Servando Cantu says
August 1, 2020 at 6:45 pm

I want to thank you all family and friends of Catherine (Cathy) for all the cards and letters that you have sent to us during her short illness and after her passing. She had a beautiful contagious personality and a laugh that we all loved. Cathy will be greatly missed. The love of my life is gone too soon. Our Lord Jesus Christ has called her be in his Kingdom of Heaven. Rest in peace my love.

Catherine M. Cantu October 28, 1961 - July 20, 2020

Condolences(7)

Amy Phillips says

Amy Phillips says

Victoria Razo-Mendoza says

Gail Harvey says

Alma Cantu-Benavides says

Donna Ellenberger says

Servando Cantu says

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