Catherine Martinson

Catherine C. Martinson (Griffin), age 94 of Minneapolis, passed away peacefully on July 6th, 2012. Catherine Griffin Martinson was born on July 25, 1917 in Erin Township, Lonsdale, MN. She was the youngest of 10 children. Preceded in death by husband Paul H. Martinson, the one and only love of her life; son, Thomas Paul; parents, John and Mary; 4 sisters and 5 brothers and her beloved aunt, Ann Breslin 'Auntie'. Survived by children, Kathleen (Ken) Bach; Ann (Craig) Arnold; daughter-in-law, Mary Jo Martinson; Mary (Steve) Wright; Paul (Debbie) Martinson; John Martinson; 20 Grandchildren; 25.5 Great Grandchildren plus many very, very special nieces and nephews. She was a graduate of Bethlehem Academy, Faribault, MN and St. Joseph's Hospital School of Nursing in St. Paul. She was then employed as the 36th stewardess hired by Northwest Airlines and during this time met her husband Paul. Catherine was a longstanding, active member of Our Lady of Peace (Resurrection) Catholic Church. She and Paul were instrumental in building the 'new' church in 1955.She served on the Council of Catholic Women as well as many other committees within the church and school. All 6 children attended Resurrection School. Catherine was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her 100% Irish heritage was a gift she shared with everyone who knew her. Gracious in all ways, a twinkle in her eyes, the gift of laughter and an incredibly kind heart. We are all better people for having known and loved her. Here's hoping that those who didn't have that chance will meet her one day! Mass of Christian Burial, Thursday, July 12th at 10:30 A.M. at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, 5435 11th Avenue South in Minneapolis. Visitation, Wed, July 11th 5:00 - 8:00 P.M., prayer service at 7:00 P.M. at Cremation Society of MN Edina Chapel, 7373 France Ave., Edina and 1 hour prior to mass at church. Internment: St. Mary's Cemetery, Waverly, MN. Memorials preferred to The Franciscan Poor Clares of Minneapolis or Our Lady of Good Council Cancer Home of St. Paul.