Catherine Nordby

Catherine (Samela) Nordby, 96, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at Ascension Hospital in Sterling Heights, from the effects of Covid-19. She was the widow of Louis A. Nordby.  Catherine (Kay) was previously a resident of Middlebury, CT for more than 55 years.

Catherine was born in Waterbury, CT on January 9, 1924, a daughter of the late John and Angela (Sacco) Samela. She was a graduate of Waterbury Catholic High School.

Catherine was a consummate homemaker, seamstress, volunteer and gardener, which gave her great joy. She was a member of St. John of the Cross Altar Society for many years and helped in arranging the flowers that adorned the church. Over the years, Catherine also lent her support to the Girl Scouts, local garden clubs and Waterbury Hospital. She loved a good “hunt” at auctions, successfully finding many classic items still valued by her family. Catherine, above all, kept her family’s needs ahead of her own. She was a staunch advocate for her children and a devoted and loving mother and grandmother.

Catherine leaves three children; William J. Nordby (Margaret) of Ohio, Mary Nordby Caisse of East Haven, CT and Catherine Nordby, M.D. (Gerard Martin, M.D) of Michigan; seven grandchildren, Heather (Todd) Williams, Rebecca Nordby (Shawn Osika), Philip Caisse, Emily Caisse, Gerard (Courtney) Martin, Elizabeth (Michael) Glazier and Spencer (Katelynn) Martin; six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She also leaves a brother, Andrew (Jean) Samela of Middlebury, CT and a sister, Mary Sprano of Waterbury, CT.  Catherine was pre-deceased by two brothers; Leonard Samela and Nicholas Samela.

Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, services in Middlebury, CT will be scheduled for a future date. There are no calling hours. The Skupny Funeral Home in Roseville, Michigan has been entrusted with Catherine’s arrangements. (For online tributes or condolences, visit www.skupnyfuneralhome.com)

Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.