Catherine A. Wilson

CROSS PLAINS - Catherine Arlene Wilson, age 69, of Cross Plains, passed away on Thursday, March 18, 2021, at her daughter’s home. She was born on Nov. 15, 1951, in Madison, the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Radl) Weaver. Cathy blossomed in 1960s Madison, a turbulent decade of activism for learning, social justice, and environmental awareness. Shy but radiant, she met her soulmate, John Rex Wilson, while they were both teenagers. Cathy graduated high school from Madison Memorial High School and pursued an education degree from UW-Madison where she made her commitment to education-and early learners in particular. “Kindergarten teachers are first to introduce students to the world of education,” she would say. “It’s a time when kids are engaging, not just playing. Besides learning to read and write they build social skills, learn about nature, and make connections that impact their entire lives.” For over 25 years, Cathy focused on engaging with her students at Maywood Elementary School in Monona, Wis. She naturally possessed the traits of creativity, patience, flexibility, and compassion so essential to teaching young children. Her passion was that they become enwrapped with the joy of learning. It was an impact that lasted years. Not long ago a former student from the 1980s ran into her unexpectedly at a niece’s baby shower. “Mrs. Wilson?” she asked. Cathy recognized a former pupil and replied, “Hi Khara! How are you?” Having a passionate educator for a mother and grandmother was a blessing to daughter, Dora Boehnen; son-in-law, Tom; grandson, Noah; and granddaughters, Katya, Chloe, and Lola. “Grandma Unna (Cathy) taught me to appreciate nature and how important it is to be present without being disruptive.” The grandchildren cherish memories of watching birds with Unna in the morning and how she would identify them and sing their songs. Her passion for education and connection was evident “at bedtime Unna would read us as many books as we would want, without limit.” It is with love and sadness we announce her passing. A profound love for what we learned from her during her time with us, and deep sadness in knowing it has ended. Private services will be held with burial at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison. A celebration of her life will be held on May 1, 2021. Memorials may be gifted in Cathy’s name to Northwest Dane Senior Services, Senior Citizen Center - Cross Plains, WI. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com . Gunderson West Funeral & Cremation Care 7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761