“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” — Winnie the Pooh

On June 3, 2026, Catherine “Cathy” Marie Mockel passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Though our hearts are broken, her journey leaves us with a lasting reminder to treasure each day, embrace life fully, and move through the world with humility, grace, and dignity.

Cathy was born on June 10, 1952, in Helena, Montana, to her loving parents, Ben and Irene Wake. From an early age, she possessed a quick mind, spirited personality, and a curiosity about the world that remained with her throughout her life. The second of four children, Cathy shared a close bond with her older brother, Ben, and her younger siblings, Hazel and Paul. Affectionately nicknamed “Cacky” by her siblings, she loved the outdoors and spent many cherished summers with her family at Swan Lake.

As a young woman, Cathy worked as a lifeguard, where she taught swimming to visually impaired children. She fostered a sense of calm and confidence in those she taught, reflecting the empathy and kindness that would become hallmarks of her character. Throughout her life, she encouraged her siblings and loved ones to move beyond their fears, whether they involved deep water, difficult decisions, or anything in between. She had a gift for offering loving encouragement while never losing sight of practical realities, helping others find the confidence to take the next step forward.

After graduating from Helena High School, Cathy attended Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree in Physical Education. She went on to enjoy a long and respected career with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana, where she was known for her dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic.

Above all else, Cathy was devoted to her family. She was the proud mother of three daughters born to her first husband, Gary Duncan, who remained a good friend throughout the years. Words cannot adequately express the depth of her love and dedication to her children. Cathy believed deeply in exposing her daughters to arts and culture. She shared with them a love of music, dance, theater, literature, and creativity that profoundly shaped who they became as adults. Her lifelong love of reading, sharp sense of style, and commitment to an active, healthy lifestyle were among the many values she passed on to them.

Her children have lost not only a mother they deeply admired, but also a cherished friend- a rare and beautiful gift they held close throughout their lives. They loved spending time with her, talking about everything and nothing, and sharing adventures big and small. As the heart of her family, Cathy held everyone together. She remembered the little details, showed up when it mattered most, and loved unconditionally.

Cathy’s sharp wit, wonderful sense of style and humor, and strong sense of self were among the many qualities that made her so loved and admired. Never one to fade into the background, she filled every room with personality and always had something insightful (or hilariously honest) to say. She was also a gifted cook, and many of her family’s favorite memories were made around her table. Her meals brought people together, and she showed her love in thoughtful ways that made everyone feel at home.

One of the greatest joys of Cathy’s life was marrying Gregory Mockel. Together they shared nearly thirty years of partnership filled with love and laughter. They cared for one another through every season of life, and in her final months Greg cared for her with unwavering tenderness and devotion. It was a quiet but powerful testament to the depth of their love. He brought her profound happiness and understood her in a way few others could, creating a bond built on true commitment and enduring friendship.

After retirement, Cathy embraced a life centered around the two places she loved most: winters in Lake Havasu, Arizona, and summers in Helena, Montana; with Greg by her side. Together they shared a large and loving blended family that brought her tremendous joy.

The births of her three grandsons brought Cathy immeasurable pride and happiness. She shared a special bond with each of them, creating countless cherished memories and rarely missing a birthday, sporting event, school activity, or opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments. She was equally devoted to her extended family and treasured every chance to gather with those she loved.

Cathy brought flavor, laughter, and life wherever she went, and all who knew her will deeply miss her spirited presence. Though the world may feel a little quieter- and a little less flavorful- without her in it, her humor, compassion, wisdom, and vibrant spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have shared in her life.

She is survived by her loving husband, Gregory Mockel; her daughters, Kelly Duncan, Shannon (Miles) Wacker, and Tracey (Brendan) Riley; her grandchildren, Chase Wacker, Bryce Wacker, and Axel Riley; her siblings, Ben Wake, Hazel Chorniak, and Paul Wake; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Cathy also leaves behind her beloved stepchildren, Cher Gerhardt and family; Chris (Kasey) Mockel and family; Josh Mockel and family; Gretchen (Tony) Robertson and family; and Janie (Lucas) Canney and family. Together, Cathy and Greg shared a large blended family that included eight children and thirteen grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 8, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Grizzy Gardens in Helena, Montana. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) or the Lewis and Clark Library Foundation. PanCAN advances research, supports patients and families, and works toward earlier detection and improved treatments for pancreatic cancer. Donations made in Cathy’s memory will help continue this important work and honor the strength and grace she displayed throughout her journey. The Lewis and Clark Library Foundation provides welcoming spaces and enriching opportunities that inspire lifelong learning and strengthen the community. In recognition of Cathy’s lifelong love of reading, contributions to the Foundation are a meaningful way to honor her memory.

PanCAN: https://pancan.org/donate/

Lewis and Clark Library Foundation: https://www.lclibrary.org/149/Item-Donations