Catherine "Cat" Rose McNeece

Catherine Rose McNeece, known to most people as “Cat”, was born on July 2, 1997 in Springville, Utah.  She was the daughter of Daniel and Beverly McNeece.   She attended Sage Creek Elementary, Liberty Academy, Mapleton Jr. High and Merit College Prep Academy.  In first grade, Cat began martial arts at the Omega Martial Arts Studio in Springville and over the next 12 years achieved the rank of Second Dan Black Belt and the title of Sabumnim.  The studio played a major influence in her life and it was a second home to her.   She was a fun and devoted instructor to the many students she taught.

Cat received her GED at 16 and worked three jobs to earn enough money to move to San Diego, California, which fulfilled a long-time dream of living near the beach.  She worked as a nanny, and then as a swim instructor before returning home in December 2016.  A timely doctor’s visit led to the devastating diagnosis of ovarian cancer.  Catherine loved the doctors and nurses at the Huntsman Cancer Hospital in Salt Lake City where she was treated. Cat passed away quietly at home in her sister’s arms on October 30, 2017.

Cat had a strong faith in God and was an active Christian at Grace Bible Church in Springville and Skyline Church in San Diego.  She witnessed her belief in God and his love every chance she had.  Her immediate connection to others and desire to lift them up drew people to her.  She will be remembered for her mismatched socks, her strong, yet optimistic personality, lively sense of humor and big beautiful eyes.  She will be missed by many people who all called her friend. Among those are her parents, siblings, extended family, martial arts family, church families, doctors, nurses, and work acquaintances.

Cat has requested that a spirit of love, laughter, music and bright colors fill her celebratory events.   (Her actual words--“No moroseness or black!”)

A viewing will be held at Wheeler Mortuary in Springville on Friday, November 3 from 6:30-8:30pm.  The memorial celebration (funeral) will be held at the Omega Martial Arts Studio (875 N. Main in Springville) on Saturday Nov. 4 at 11am with a viewing from 9:45-11am.  Interment will be at the Springville City Cemetery.

**Special note:  Due to possible damage, high heels will not be allowed on the mat of the studio, where the seating is located.  Thank you in advance for either wearing flats or removing your shoes before stepping onto the mat.

A Celebration of Life Par-tay is being hosted at Grace Bible Church (239 S. Main, Springville) on Saturday, November 11th at 2:00 p.m.  There will be games, videos, worship music, food and fun for all.