It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Cathie Lee Masters, who left us on May 28, 2024. Cathie was born in Columbus, Ohio on February 6, 1945 but her family returned to Nebraska after the war and she spent her life there. Cathie was a graduate of Omaha’s Westside High School in 1963 and she earned her BA in Education from the University of Nebraska in 1967. She married Frank Masters in 1966. She enjoyed working as an elementary educator but went back to UNL to earn her Masters degree in archaeology and anthropology. She then worked as an archaeologist for the National Park Service and the Midwest Archaeological Center. After she and Frank parted ways Cathie went to work for the Department of Immigration and Naturalization which became a part of the Department of Homeland Security. She worked as an analyst and adjudicator and served as President of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and a Union Steward. At the DHS Cathie did not merely perform a job; she provided hope and opportunity, guiding countless individuals and families towards a new beginning.
Even in retirement she continued to touch lives with her kindness and zest for life.
Cathie has been a beacon of strength, resilience, and kindness, whose spirit shone brightly even in the toughest of times. As a long time resident of Lincoln, Nebraska, she nurtured many cherished connections and lived a life filled with warmth and love. Cathie had a great curiosity about the world around her and the world beyond her and as a lifelong learner she took advantage of any opportunity to expand her mind.
Cathie is survived by her loving daughter, Carrie Masters and her husband Jim Stevens; son, Carl Masters; granddaughter, Asa; and sister, Laurie (Larry) Thede. Cathie was beloved by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Frances Ekwall; and her ex-husband, Frank Masters.
A celebration of Cathie’s life will take place on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 10:30am at Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery, 3600 “O” Street, Lincoln, Nebraska.
As we remember Cathie, let us not mourn her passing, but instead, celebrate a life well-lived. Her legacy will continue to live on in the memories we made with her, in the laughter and love that we shared. We invite you to leave your memories of Cathie and upload photos on her memorial page, ensuring that her spirit continues to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.
I am sorry for your loss. I worked with Cathie many years at Immigaration. She was always friendly and outgoing to her co-workers and I enjoyed knowing her and working with her. My deepest condolences to you.