Catherine Marie Sullivan, 72, of Westmont, died at home with family on April 9, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with lupus and lung cancer. Born on December 8, 1953, in Chicago, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Catherine (née McLaughlin) Sullivan.
After graduating from Trinity High School in 1971, she continued her education at Northern Illinois University. During her college years, she began experiencing health challenges and was eventually diagnosed with lupus. She faced it with remarkable strength and perseverance.
In 1974, she began her career with the Illinois Secretary of State Division of Motor Vehicles. Over more than three decades of service, she held a variety of roles and earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues prior to her retirement in 2008.
In 1982, she made her home in Forest Park and then established her residence in Westmont in 1994, where she remained.
Among her cherished experiences were trips to Ireland with her cousins. For many years, she and her good friend, the late Carrie Coppini, enjoyed a weekly Bingo obsession. Her other passion was crafting various projects to be gifted to friends and family.
Cathy is survived by her siblings, Mary, Michael (Diane), Margy (Brian) Ripa, and Terry Sullivan; her nieces and nephews, Eamonn Cogan, Mick and Bailey Sullivan, Bridget (Tyler Eubanks), Brendan (Amanda), and Michael (fiancée Skye Synder) Ripa; and many cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A visitation was held at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home on April 24. A Funeral Mass was celebrated on April 25 at St. Giles, 1045 Columbian Ave., Oak Park. Interment private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lupus Foundation of Chicago in Catherine’s memory.