Catherine (Raffin) Asplund passed away on Oct. 7, 2021, in Chehalis, Washington at 92 years of age. She was born on Dec. 6, 1928, in Cordenons, Italy. Catherine is survived by her three daughters Christine (Chris) Langford of Chehalis, Washington, Mary (Morry) Stafford of University Place, Washington, and Susan (Mark) Kershisnik of Loveland, Colorado. Catherine is also survived by her brother, Louis Raffin, seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Catherine was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, John Victor Asplund, her parents Erminio and Carolina (Meiorin) Raffin, and brother fiPaul Raffin.
After immigrating through Ellis Island in 1932, Catherine lived in St. Helens, Oregon, graduating as valedictorian of her high school class. After high school, Catherine attended Oregon State (College) University where she met her husband, John. They married in St. Helens, Oregon in 1949. Catherine finished her college degree in education at Southern Oregon State College. She worked at Green Hill School in Chehalis, Washington, was a substitute teacher at various schools, taught fifth grade at Roosevelt Elementary School in Rock Springs, Wyoming and worked in admissions at Portland Community College in Portland, Oregon.
Family was especially important to Catherine. She created a warm and welcoming home for her family throughout numerous moves within Oregon, Washington and Wyoming. Catherine was an accomplished seamstress, designing her own clothing. She loved entertaining, was an avid golfer, a skilled bridge player, and was active in research and investing. Catherine was a P.E.O. member who treasured her P.E.O. sisters in the states of Wyoming, Oregon and Washington.
Catherine and John planned many camping trips with their daughters and family friends. Catherine loved traveling and returned to Italy several times to visit her family. After retirement, she and John began extended adventures visiting their daughters and exploring places of historical interest across the United States and overseas. Over the years, Catherine kept in touch with the many friends she and John made with each move, and she loved writing and receiving letters. Her friendships were such an important part of her life.
Catherine was gracious, welcoming and a great conversationalist. Education was very important to her. She was persistent and strived for excellence throughout her life.
A private family memorial is planned for Catherine and John.
