Catherine J. Auer , 78, of Columbia City, passed at 4:50 a.m. Monday, July 15, 2024, at Parkview Randallia, Fort Wayne.

She was born on March 24, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, a daughter of the late William B. and Catherine M. (McIntosh) Lewis. She grew up in Fort Wayne, graduating from Central Catholic High School in 1964 and continuing her education at International Business College in Fort Wayne.

She began her work career at Magnavox in Fort Wayne.  On November 7, 1975, she married Thomas F. Auer.  They have always made their home in Columbia City.  Thomas died on May 13, 2019.

In 2000, Catherine went to work for Whitley County Consolidated Schools in the maintenance department at the high school.  She retired in 2008.

A woman of faith, she belonged to St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church and participated in its Bible study groups. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, producing numerous pieces over the years. She liked Washington state and went whenever possible to spend time on the beaches there.  She adored her two Shih Tzu dogs, who preceded her in death.

Her brothers, Roger (Marge) Lewis and Randall G. Lewis, both of Fort Wayne, Robert Lewis of Wawaka, and Richard Lewis of California, and nine nieces and nephews survive.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Lewis, and a childhood sister, Peggy Lewis.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Friday (July 19th) at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church with Father Cyril Fernandes, the Officiant.  Burial is beside her husband at the South Park Annex Cemetery.  Visitation is from 12:30 p.m. until the Mass Friday at the church.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

Memorials in Catherine's honor are to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church.