Cathie Jo Unrue

Cathie Jo Unrue, aged 76, of Florence, Kentucky, passed away on July 26th, 2026. Born on October 18, 1949, in Ironton, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of David and Joanna Hogsten (nee Bazelle), and sister to Connie Holtzapfel.

Cathie lived a life full of love and dedication. A spirited Majorette at Coal Grove High School, she later served as a phlebotomist at the local hospital in Ironton. Her journey took a lovely turn when she met Ken Unrue, who became not only her cherished husband but also an amazing bonus dad to her twins, Anna and Amy. Their life together included memorable years in Germany due to Ken's army service, and there they welcomed their son, Clint in 1978. The Army brought them back to southern Ohio, then they moved to Crystal Lake, Illinois in 1985.

Cathie's passion for cooking and baking was well-known, as was her love for singing, playing the piano, and tending to her garden. Her children were the light of her life. She loved her pets, both cats and dogs who filled her heart with joy. The warmth of her home and her hospitality were felt especially during the holidays, creating cherished memories. Most memorably, she shared bi-annual road trips with her children to and from southern Ohio to visit extended family.

Her professional journey continued as she worked as a phlebotomist with dedication in Dr. Wilson’s office, then Dr. Asgar, and Dr. Lawrence from 1985 to 2001. In retirement, she and Ken enjoyed traveling up and down the East Coast before settling in Erlanger, Kentucky, to be closer to family.

Cathie was a devoted grandmother, finding immense joy in hosting sleepovers and cookouts for her grandchildren. Her legacy of love and laughter lives on in Anna (Pete) Frahm, Amy (Jeff) Fournier, and her grandchildren Aiden, Noah, Madison, Jacob, and Ava.

Preceded in death by her husband Ken in 2024, her son Clint in 2018, and her sister Connie, and brother-in-law Mike, Cathie's memory lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

There will be a private service for family held at a later date. 

Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering devotion to family will be eternally cherished.