Catherine Ann Madden

Catherine A. "Kay" Madden, beloved wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend, and neighbor, passed away on April 8, 2026, at the age of 94. She was born on February 23, 1932, in South Haven, Minnesota to Irene Maher.

Kay proudly served her country as a cryptographer specialist in the Women's Army Corps at Arlington Hall in Virginia, achieving the rank of Sergeant during the Korean war. She served from 1950-1953. It is during her service, she met the love of her life, Mortimer M. Madden, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage until his passing in March 2005. Together, they built a warm and fulfilling life, raising their family between Bristol, Connecticut, and Catawba Island-Kay's most cherished place. Kay was a patriotic American who proudly displayed the American Flag at her home each day of her life.

Kay and Mort were the devoted parents of four daughters: Lori Patrick of Bethany, Connecticut; Lisa (David) Krause of East Falmouth, Massachusetts; Lynn (Chuck Ritter) of Grove City, Ohio; and Kathy Lay of Port Clinton, Ohio. Her children were the pride of her life and her grandchildren and great grandchild were her life's joy. Her grandchildren include Emily Patrick (partner Dylan Chase) of Oakland, California; Christopher (Casey) Ritter of Guyton, Georgia; Caitlyn (Brad) Fields of Grove City, Ohio; Anna (Matt) Schnider of Verona, Wisconsin; Michael Lay of Port Clinton, Ohio; Matthew Krause of East Falmouth, Massachusetts; and her great‑grandchild, Oliver G. Fields of Grove City, Ohio. She was predeceased by her loving spouse, Mortimer M. Madden, her mother, Irene Maher; her sister, Carol LaPlante; and her grandchild, Sara Lay.

Kay embraced life with warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She was known for her compassion, her steadfast friendships, and her appreciation for life's simple joys. She was the friend you could always count on. She loved hosting her Friday morning coffee time, golfing, spending time at the beach, gardening, and playing cards-bridge being her favorite game. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church for over 75 years. She was an inspiration of a life well lived.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who loved her.

A special thanks to her caregivers over the past 4 years. Kay and her family appreciate your dedication and kindness.

Graveside services with military honors will be held at Catawba Island Cemetery on Saturday,
May 9 , 2026 at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.