Travel-lover Catherine Adele Peacocke (1937 - 2022) (Cathy) took her final trip from this world on Saturday, September 24, surrounded by her devoted family who gave her a prayerful, loving sendoff.
Growing up in the cradle of Grandview Heights, Catherine spent summers swimming at Grandview pool, where she learned to swim, dive and hone her deep tan. With an athletic father (who played football at OSU), it is not surprising that she was an athlete, particularly loving field hockey. Her life-long love affair with chocolate began then, too. She attended The Ohio State University, receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees in elementary education as well as her Buckeye Nation membership card. Her itch to travel began then with a summer spent working in Yellowstone National Park.
Catherine’s teaching career began in California, followed by a few years teaching on a military base in the Panama Canal Zone, making travel to Central and South America convenient. On these trips she acquired the Latin American art and wood carvings that adorned her home. Coming back to her hometown, Catherine taught in Grandview’s Edison Elementary, often seen pulling up to school in her Alpha Romeo convertible sports car. Teaching here was special for her, as were many of the students and fellow teachers. Summers while teaching were spent traveling – Italy, Spain, Greece, Mexico, Canada, Asia, Hawaii, Alaska and of course a trip to Ireland was imperative in respect to her beloved Irish heritage. Being quite the athlete, she played tennis and began skiing more with Columbus Ski Club, even winning a few races.
Marriage and North Carolina called so Catherine spent the next 30 years living and teaching in the Tar Heel State. During the time living here she was a mom to many canine children who were truly the loves of her life. Dogs sparked joy in her in a way nothing else could. In these years she took trips to New Mexico, continued acquiring art, skiing and soaking up the southwestern culture. She especially loved a Vodka Martini with her dear friend Duff Coburn.
Catherine was genuine. She loved deeply. Seldom did she say negative things about anyone. She is leaving a sizeable hole in the hearts of those who loved her, including her big sister Marlene Peacocke Antolino; nieces and nephews Ralph (Cindy) Antolino Jr, Teri (Brad) Williams, Lisa Antolino (Larry Pesyna), John Antolino; great nieces and nephews Lindsay (Andrew) Jaspersohn, Amy Williams, Marisa Antolino, Mary (Tyler) Pilkington; and great great niece Sloan Bedzyk and great great nephews Marshall Bedzyk, Henry Jaspersohn and Wyatt Pilkington. She was preceded by her parents Rose and John (Jack) Peacocke and brother-in-law Ralph Antolino Sr. Many friends will miss her as well, especially Duff Coburn and Debbie Urton.
Family and friends may call at the EGAN-RYAN NORTHWEST CHAPEL, 4661 KENNY ROAD, COLUMBUS, on Tuesday September 27, from 4-7 p.m. where a Rosary Service will be at 4 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick Church, 280 N. Grant Avenue, on Wednesday, September 28 at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at St Joseph Cemetery in Lockbourne. Visit www.egan-ryan.com for condolences.
If you are interested in honoring Catherine’s passing, consider a gift to your area Humane Society, to a cancer-fighting organization, or do something kind for someone you love in Catherine’s name.
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