Cathy Elizabeth Rushing

Palmer resident Cathy Elizabeth Rushing, 48, passed away May 22, 2010. Cathy was born Oct. 19, 1961, in Sunnyside, Wash., to Glenn and Eilleen Ewing. In September 1989, Cathy moved to Alaska, living in Dutch Harbor until 2001, when she moved to Palmer where she then resided until her passing.

She was employed by Pen Air as a customer service manager from 1991 until 2000.

Cathy was a wonderful, selfless and kind soul who always put the needs of her family first.

She was a smart, beautiful and strong woman. Cathy was a compassionate listener; always there to listen and help with positive words of encouragement as she helped many through tough times.

Her big heart never ceased to amaze those around her with her generosity and lovingness. Cathy’s wonderful sense of humor and infectious laugh will be greatly missed.

She was a wonderful grandmother to six precious grandchildren; they will miss their very special Grandma.

“We could have never asked for a better: wife, mother or friend. You were our best friend and will forever be in our hearts,” the family wrote.

Cathy is survived by husband Randy Rushing of Palmer; daughters Jennifer Tungul of Unalaska, Dawniel Dupee of Fairbanks, and Cherie Rushing of Wasilla; granddaughter Alyssa Tungul of Unalaska; grandson Ron J. Dupee of Fairbanks; grandson Kyle Tungul of Unalaska; grandson Johnathan Dupee of Fairbanks; granddaughter Mackenzie Nix of Wasilla; grandson Cooper Dupee of Fairbanks; father Glenn Ewing of Richland, Wash.; and sister Kimberly Morrison of Richland, Wash.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Eilleen Ewing.

Memorial donations in memory of Cathy may be sent to Cherie Rushing, 2270 S. Paddock Dr., Wasilla, AK 99654.

A funeral will be held today at 11 a.m. In memory of Cathy at Valley Funeral Home, 151 E. Herning Ave., Wasilla. A public viewing will be held one hour prior to the service at 10 a.m. Pastor Stephen Shrimplin will officiate at the service. Interment will follow immediately after the service at Wasilla-Aurora Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Alejandro Tungul Jr., Ron Dupee, Josh Nix, Chad Morrison and Tyler Morrison.

Flowers are welcome at the service.

Arrangements were with Valley Funeral Home in Wasilla.