Submitted by: Dan Rich

South Bend Tribune 8/3/2001

Catherine A. Raab

July 30, 1904 - July 31, 2001

Catherine A. "Catch" Raab, 97, of Regency Place of South Bend, Ind., formerly of Portsmouth Court in Mishawaka, Ind., passed away at 3:40 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, in Saint Joseph's Regional Medical Center, South Bend.

She was born on July 30, 1904, to Charles and Mary (Semortier) Singler in South Bend, and was a lifelong resident.

Mrs. Raab was a self-employed beautician for over 60 years. Adored by her family, all of whom she loved with all her heart, and admired and respected by her friends, Catherine "Catch" was a woman before her time. She attended St. Mary's High School for two years and then completed training at Madame Fair's Beauty School. She had a beauty shop in her home so she could always be there for her children, as her family always came first. Even after retiring, she visited friends in their homes, who were unable to get out, to style their hair.

On June 16, 1934, as Catherine A. "Catch" Singler, she married Francis W. "Cobby" Raab in St. Joseph Catholic Church, South Bend. He died on Dec. 15, 1984. She was also preceded in death by three sisters, Lillian Lipetska, Hildegarde Singler and Rosalie Buckley; and by four brothers, Rudy, Paul, Carl and John "Josie" Singler.

She is survived by one daughter, Kay (Ed) Anderson of South Bend; two sons, John (Lolly) Raab of South Bend; Bill (Carol) Raab of Mishawaka; seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; one sister, Marie Hutton of South Bend; and by countless wonderful nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Raab was a member of St. Joseph Parish in South Bend where she also belonged to the Altar and Rosary Society of the church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. today, Aug. 3, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, South Bend, with Rev. Charles J. Lavely, C.S.C., officiating. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger, Ind.

Friends called from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 2, in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive, South Bend, where a Rosary was prayed at 6 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 226 N. Hill Street, South Bend, IN 46617.

"Catherine's faith was steadfast throughout her life and an integral part of her being, making her a true role model for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a loving, caring woman who always gave of herself. Her absence will leave a true void in our lives and hearts."