Catherine R. Olsen (nee Ippolito), 92, of Holmdel, NJ, was called home by our Heavenly Father on Sunday July 6th. Daughter of Joseph and Dora Ippolito and sister of Philip, Michael, Louis, Anthony, Gabrielle and Joseph Jr. (all pre-deceased), Catherine was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ, where she attended and graduated from Snyder High School.

Catherine met the love of her life, Ralph, when he was stationed in Bayonne, NJ, while serving in the Navy. They married in 1954, residing in Jersey City where they started a family. She raised her children with love, compassion, humor and confidence. Spending time with her family, particularly with her five grandsons, is what brought her the most joy.

Catherine worked as a dental assistant in Bayonne for over twenty-five years, retiring in 2004. She was an avid NY Yankees fan and a dedicated animal lover, always looking to help a stray animal in need. She loved entertaining during the holidays and always made Christmas magical for those she loved. She especially enjoyed watching Hallmark Christmas Movies during holiday time.

Her compassion and humanity for others will always be remembered. In addition to her love for animal welfare, she volunteered many years for the Astrea Junior Guild, a Jersey City charitable organization assisting and supporting the physically infirmed. Also, in her spare time, Catherine was a long-time officer for the Newark Bay Power Squadron Ladies Auxiliary, a non-profit organization promoting boating safety within the community

Catherine is predeceased by her beloved husband Ralph L. Olsen and her beloved daughter Nancy Olsen Cavaliere. Surviving is her son Ralph P. Olsen of Holmdel, NJ; daughter Catherine and son- in- law Stephen Theobald of Succasunna, NJ; son- in- law Jack Cavaliere and daughter- in- law Rita Cavaliere of Lakewood, NJ; grandsons Nicholas and Jonathan Cavaliere; Douglas, Jeffrey, and Gregory Theobald, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation is Thursday, July 10th from 2-4 and 6-8 at the Holmdel Funeral Home located at 26 S. Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Friday July 11th at 10:30 AM at the Church of St. Catharine located at 108 Middletown Road in Holmdel. Interment will Saturday, July 12th at 10:00 am at Memory Garden’s Cemetery in Colonie, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or an animal shelter of your choosing.

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