Catherine Elizabeth Ashley, 95, of Blair, died Friday, Dec.10, 2010, in Blair surrounded by her friends and family.

At her request, there will be no formal funeral but rather a private graveside service for the family in 2011.

Catherine Elizabeth Rathsach was born Aug. 20, 1915, in rural Woodbury County near Bronson, Iowa, to Henry and Margareta (Howe) Rathsach.

She was raised in the Hinton and Moville, Iowa, area and graduated from Moville Public School.

She spent much of her life as a mother and homemaker in the Anthon area. She eventually moved to Sioux City and worked at St. Luke's Medical Center. She was employed at St. Luke's until her retirement in 1983. It was there she was given the nickname of "Lady A" by her coworkers and friends.

After retiring, she moved to Colorado and resided with her son and daughter-in-law, Barry and Pam, and their daughters in the Evergreen and Conifer area. In 1999, she moved with them to Blair.

For the last three years of her life, she lived in the assisted living unit at Crowell Memorial Home in Blair. She continued to enjoy her life there and made many close friends amongst the residents and staff.

She is survived by four children, Barry and Pam of Blair, Laura of Seattle, Mick and Judy of Sergent Bluff, and Margaret of Seattle; a daughter-in-law, Nancy Seuntjens of Danbury; 10 grandchildren, Hannah, Sierra, Jarod, Naomi, Jason, Adam, Morgan and Aaron Ashley, Eric and Justin Broderson; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter Eleanor "Ellie;" son, Marion "Chick;"' and granddaughter, Angela Ashley.

Memorials are suggested to Crowell Memorial Home, 245 S. 22nd St., Blair, NE 68008.

Armstrong Funeral Home of Anthon, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.