Catherine Elaine Terzich (Cathy)

life story

A loving mother and grandmother

Fierce love for family

Catherine Elaine Terzich (nee Viney) was born in Fayetteville, Arkansas, in 1944, the eldest of nine children. From the start, she carried a fierce love for her family. On the back of a cherished photo of herself with her young siblings, she once wrote, “three of my kids,” capturing her lifelong devotion to those she loved. Though her early years were filled with hardship, Cathy’s strength and compassion defined her life far more than any challenge ever could.

She left this earth peacefully with loved ones by her side and a gifted musician playing “I Can Only Imagine,” a favorite song of hers. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvina and William; brothers George and Paul; sister Esther; her son Tim; and her great-granddaughter Scarlett.

Cathy is survived by her brothers Tim Viney (Nena) and Steven Haugen, and sisters Victoria Ternet, Patricia Haugen, and Cynthia Dahl; her son Chris (Jeni) Terzich; daughters Missy Ortiz and Jessi McKenna (Tom); and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish her kindness, humor, and unwavering love.

A Celebration of Life will be held at one of Cathy’s favorite places, Every Third Saturday—the veteran support organization founded and led by Jessi and Tom—on Saturday, October 11, 2025 (5402 43rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55417). Visitation begins at 1:00 p.m. with the service following at 2:00 p.m.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

October 11, 2025

A Celebration of Life will be held at one of Cathy’s favorite places, Every Third Saturday—the veteran support organization founded and led by Jessi and Tom. Visitation begins at 1:00 p.m. with the service following at 2:00 p.m.