Catherine Hiner

Catherine W. J. Hiner, affectionately known as Cathy, departed from this world on January 28, 2025, leaving behind a profound legacy woven through the lives she touched. Born on May 27, 1940, in Mt. Clemens, MI, Cathy was the daughter of the late August and Norma (MacNamara) Grayson. Her vibrant spirit radiated kindness and compassion, echoing through every facet of her life. Cathy's journey was marked by love, commitment, and faith. She found her soulmate in Robert R. Hiner, marrying him on September 17, 1971. Though Robert is no longer by her side, his memory remains a cherished part of her story. Together, they knit together a family who now honors her remarkable life: daughters Roberta (Toni) Schmidt, Gretchen Kneip, Jennifer (Pete) McCullah, Christine (Randall) Kuester, and son David (Helene) Hiner, along with a tapestry of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each one carries with them the threads of her love, wisdom, and creativity. Cathy's educational pursuits were as diverse as her interests. She graduated from East Detroit High School, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, and was a proud member of Phi Theta Kappa at St. Clair County Community College. Her spiritual journey culminated in a dedicated ministry within the United Methodist Church, where she continued to share her faith long after retirement. Cathy’s formal ministry extended in Michigan to her churches at Ubly UMC, Memphis and Lamb UMCs, Port Sanilac UMC and cooperative parish, and finally to Jeddo and Buell UMCs from which she retired. Regular attendance at John Stewart United Methodist Church in Upper Sandusky, OH, reflected her deep-rooted commitment to community and service. Aside from her role as a mother and friend, one of Cathy’s proudest accomplishments was a spiritual journey to the Holy Land, encapsulating her devotion and fervor for her faith, reflecting the depth of her character and the love she dedicated to her spiritual path. An active member of her communities, Cathy engaged in a variety of organizations that highlighted her zest for life—the Grindstone Port Hope Sportsman’s Club, Port Austin Community Players, Grant Township Fire Department Chaplain, Eastern Star, Lions Club, Rotary Club, and the Happy Hookers crochet club were but a few of her affiliations. In 1986 she was named Homemaker Of The Year in Huron County, MI. She found joy in crafting beautiful quilts and continued her ministry after retirement by founding Prayers and Squares at John Stewart UMC. She uplifted others by singing heartfelt melodies, and creating intricate crocheted and knitted treasures. These hobbies, more than mere pastimes, were expressions of her love and generosity, wrapping her family, friends, and even strangers in warmth. In her passing, Cathy rejoins her beloved son, C. Anthony Todaro, and her cherished grandson, Werner Jr. Kneip, along with her dear sister Patricia R. Fraser, who precede her in death. Yet, the essence of Cathy remains vibrant in the memories shared by her family and friends, particularly her grandchildren—Herbert, Daryl, Derek, Kory, Michael, Dennis, Timothy, Sarah, Joshua, Lorraine, Randall Jr., Justin, and many great-grandchildren. Her memory will be honored during visitation on Friday January 31 from 4pm-6pm and Saturday February 1, 2025, from 9am-11am followed by a funeral service at Bringman Clark Funeral Home, with Pastors Amy Vittorio and Johnny Phillips officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Wyandot County Council on Aging, John Stewart Methodist Prayers and Squares or the charity of the donor's choice in care of Bringman Clark Funeral Home, 226 E. Wyandot Ave. Upper Sandusky, OH 43351. Visit www.BringmanClark.com to view the life tribute DVD, send a condolence or share a memory. As the world turns and the seasons change, Cathy’s spirit will forever be interwoven within the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her. In every quilt stitched, each note sung, and every yarn knitted, her legacy patiently awaits to be celebrated, cherished, and remembered.

Catherine Hiner

May 27, 1940 - January 28, 2025