Catherine Westendorf

Cathy Westendorf, age 88, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 26th, 2025. She was born in May of 1937 in Austin, Minnesota, to Ray and Velma McMullen. She grew up alongside her sister Joni and brother Brian, forming lifelong family bonds rooted in love and good times.

Cathy spent most of her life in Albert Lea, where she raised her four children. She worked for many years as a bookkeeper before managing a convenience store for Kraus Foods, where her outgoing personality left lasting impressions on coworkers and customers alike.

A proud and active member of the Albert Lea Moose Lodge for over 60 years. She earned her College of Regents degree, Moose Volunteer of the year and the Lifetime member award. Cathy cherished the friendships and community she found there. Her legendary Tom and Jerry recipe became a Thanksgiving tradition at the Moose, enjoyed and remembered by many. She was also an excellent cook for her family, and she volunteered many hours at the Moose preparing meals.

Cathy loved gathering with friends to watch Minnesota Vikings games, cheering on her favorite team through every season. While she longed to see the Vikings win a Super Bowl game, she still enjoyed every game she watched them play. She could always be counted on to proudly wear her Vikings purple and gold colors!

Cathy is survived by her sister Joni of Albert Lea; her children Kevin (Beth) Morgan of Albert Lea, Kari (Greg) Soderberg of Austin, Kraig (Cindy) Westendorf of Rochester, and Kristi Dewanz of Hastings; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray McMullen and Velma Fischer, her brother-in-law Lowell Hammer, her brother Brian McMullen and her ex-husband Robert (Jack) Westendorf. Cathy and Jack remained friends until his death in 2018. Per her wishes, she will be buried next to Jack at Hillcrest Cemetery. Cathy's family and friends will remember her for her outgoing spirit that livened every gathering. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Private family services will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services. Internment at Hillcrest Cemetery will be immediately after service. Family and friends are invited to the Celebration of Life for Cathy at the Albert Lea Moose Lodge at 12:30 PM, same day.