Catherine Lorraine Pettersen

Catherine "Cathy" L. Pettersen, 91, of Willow Street, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2026. Born in Brooklyn, New York, she was the beloved daughter of the late Abraham and Edith (Tangen) Stoutland, and the devoted wife of Roy A. Pettersen, who preceded her in death in 2013.

As a first-generation daughter of Norwegian immigrants, Cathy carried a deep pride in her heritage-something she wove throughout her life and faithfully passed on to her family. In her childhood and early adult years, she was an active member of 59th Street Lutheran Brethren Church, where her faith and sense of community first took root. After graduating from the Norwegian Lutheran Deaconesses' Hospital School of Nursing in 1954, Cathy began a lifelong career of serving others as a nurse. She later made her home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, where she lovingly raised her family and remained active in her faith community at Montvale Evangelical Free Church. Upon retirement, Cathy moved to Tuscarora Village in Mt. Bethel, Pennsylvania, where she continued her deep church involvement as a devoted member of Mt. Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church. She later settled at Willow Valley Retirement Community, where she continued to build meaningful friendships and connections.

Cathy had a gift for bringing people together. A true social butterfly, she cherished her friendships-many of which spanned a lifetime-and filled her days with laughter, connection, and community. She spent many joyful winters in Florida, hosting beach picnics and creating lasting memories with dear friends. Whether in Florida or Pennsylvania, Cathy was rarely alone, always surrounded by those who loved her. She loved to cook and bake, sharing her talents generously-especially her beloved komper, which became a well-known favorite. She also found joy in life's simple treasures, often spending her days exploring garage sales in search of the next great find.

Cathy is lovingly remembered by her children, Cindy (Bob) Etelman and Scott (Gregoria) Pettersen; her grandchildren, Ruth (Jay), Bobby (Kait), Ryan (Brianna), Jason, and Rachel (Danny); and her great-grandchildren, Olivia and Tommy. She is reunited in eternal rest with her husband, her parents, her daughter Janice Pettersen, and her "Best and Dearest Friend," Carole Gili.

A service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Cathy's memory may be made to Tuscarora Inn and Conference Center, 3300 River Road, Mt. Bethel, PA 18343, or online at tuscarora.org/giving