Cathy L. Martinson, cherished family, friends

Cathy L. Martinson passed away Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pa., after a valiant battle with cancer. Cathy was born Aug. 27, 1954, in Elizabeth, N.J., to the late Donald and Wanda Martinson (Matreyek).

Cathy was a graduate of Linden High School and Kean College, where she earned her bachelor of science degree in 1976. She pursued her career in the environmental services industry with a focus on clean water regulations.

Cathy embraced life with an open heart, a keen and inquisitive mind, and a determined “can-do” attitude. She loved a challenging puzzle, a great story, and magical moments captured on her camera.

An avid golfer and bocce ball player, she also enjoyed boating, and tracking the great blue herons and bald eagles on Red Mill Pond. More than anything, Cathy loved spending time with her family and an amazing network of friends. She is remembered as a great friend whose optimism, compassion, and resilience were an inspiration to many.

Cathy is survived by her wife, Susan E. Tobin; her brother, Glen Martinson; her sister, Barbara (Joseph); her brother, Robert (Nancy); and her niece, Morgan.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 17, at Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware, 30486 Lewes Georgetown Hwy., Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Headstrong Foundation (Nick’s House), headstrong.org; or CAMP Rehoboth Community Center, camprehoboth.org/give.

Visit Cathy’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.