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Obituary for SMITH


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Thursday September 07, 2006

Catherine Elizabeth Smith, 91, died peacefully at her home in Albuquerque, NM, on Monday, August 28, 2006. Pursuant to taking up residence with her son, Bernard Ruel Smith and wife, Maria in 1999, she was a long time resident of the Pine Meadow section of New Hartford, CT. Besides her devoted son and daughter-in-law, she leaves behind two granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; siblings, Katherine Cormier and Madeline Peltier, both of Unionville, CT, Patricia Wollenberg of Manchester, CT, Rosalie Nedorostek of Burlington, CT and Robert Revak Dublac of Unionville, CT; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by her former husband, Ruel E. Smith; six siblings, Mrs. Mary Speranza, Mrs. Walter Fox of Andover, CT, Edward P. Dublac of Farmington, CT, Mrs. Margaret (Midge) Janezic of Windsor, CT, Mr. Paul F. Dublac of Farmington, CT and Mrs. Teresa Yabrosky of Unionville, CT. Catherine was an extremely unique individual, possessing extraordinary intelligence, determination and above all, the gift of humanitarianism, always caring for those less fortunate. She was one of the greatest caregivers during her life, but always without need for fanfare or award. Her ability to perpetuate a positive mind-set, was the catalyst for so many, who needed reinforcement at crucial times in their lives. She was steadfast within the context of loyalty, both to her family and friends and remarkably undaunted by her own misfortunes in life. Catherine wore "many hats" in her life, from dedicated office manager for Case Building Supply in New Hartford, CT and later in her career, associate to her long-time devoted friend, Wycliffe Eddy, at the W.R. Eddy Real-Estate Firm, in Canton, CT. Concurrently, she was the primary caregiver to her close friends, the late Dr. and Mrs. Eddy, formerly of Collinsville; actually, she was thought of by the Eddy's to be part of their family. In conjunction with her own life and family, she remained steadfast, devoted and generous to her mother, the late Mary Catherine Revak Dublac, until her death in 1972. Her favorite aunt, the late Ann Skorka of Avon and her daughters, the late Mary Roy, Ann Dowd, and Francis Dowd from Farmington, were like sisters to Catherine. Catherine may not have won any awards, but this multi-faceted lady's accomplishments and humanitarian efforts were unparalleled. One of the outstanding gifts she possessed was her love of inspiring laughter and song; many will always recall the resonance of her repertoire of song: "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" and "You Are My Sunshine", were just a few. She left this life without either fanfare or recognition, but deserving of both; she was a true lady and will always be remembered by the many lives she touched. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, 2:00 p.m., at Beehive Homes, 600 Whitemna Dr. NW, Albuquerque. Memorial Services and interment of cremated remains will take place at a future date in Connecticut. French Mortuary 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400