Catherine Ann Luchtel "Cat", "Cate", "Lucky Girl"

Catherine Ann Luchtel, lovingly known as Cate, Cat, and most notoriously as "Lucky Girl", passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, at the age of 67.

Born on October 1, 1958, in Iowa, Cate carried her Midwestern roots proudly throughout her life and remained a devoted Cornhusker fan through every season. Her journey took her from Iowa to California, Nebraska, and eventually Ohio, where she rebuilt her life with incredible strength, resilience, and grace.

In Ohio, Cathy embraced a new chapter and became an inspiration to many through her commitment to recovery. With more than 25 years of sobriety through Alcoholics Anonymous, she touched countless lives with her eclectic personality, perseverance and encouragement to others walking the same path. Her story was one of redemption and determination, proof that people can bloom again even after the hardest winters.

Cate found joy in life's simple treasures: tending to her garden, sitting on the patio with the sun on her face, and passionately cheering on basketball and football games. Whether she was talking sports, sharing stories, or simply enjoying the outdoors, she brought warmth and personality everywhere she went. True to her nickname, "Lucky Girl", she had a spark that people remembered.

She is survived by her children, Taylor (Victoria) Breden and Justine Breden; her significant other, Brian; brothers Gary (Ellen) Luchtel, Patrick (Shiva) Luchtel, and John (Stephanie) Luchtel.

She was preceded in death by her father, Bob Luchtel; her mother, Lorraine Bittner; her stepfather, Jack Bittner; and her baby brother, Robert Luchtel; and her friend, Linda Dies.

Cate will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on in blooming gardens, peaceful patio evenings, the excitement of basketball & football, and every loyal Cornhusker cheer. The world feels a little dimmer without Lucky Girl in it, but the love, laughter, and strength she gave to others will continue to echo for years to come.

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