Cathy Jo Ambler

Cathy Jo Ambler passed away on Wednesday July 27, 2016 at the age of 69. She was born to the late William Harrison Beck and Miriam Ruth Reichert Beck of Colby, Kansas.

Cathy grew up and went to elementary and high school in Colby, before attending the University of Kansas completing a Bachelors of Education, Masters in Historical Administration and Museum Studies and Doctor of Philosophy in American Studies with an emphasis in vernacular architecture. She worked as a Historic Preservation Consultant helping to obtain tax credits for architecturally significant community buildings until retirement earlier this year.

Her greatest passion was family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who loved gardening and being a part of the community. She was happiest discovering old buildings, planting hostas and having her grandchildren near. She was a member of Quincy Preserves, Quincy Historical Society, and Friends of the Washington Theater.

She is survived by Allen, her husband of 49 years, and her two daughters; Carrie, husband Josh and two beloved grandsons Colby and Simon; and Katie with grand-dog Louie. She is also survived by her brother Rick and his family, her brother-in-law Bob and wife Trish, niece Janet and her family, friend Reed (who she considered a son) and his family. She leaves behind numerous other loving relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved sister, Pam Toburen.

Cathy requested a celebration of life in lieu of a memorial service. The remembrance reception and open house in her honor will be held at the Gardner Denver Museum, 4th & Maine Street, Quincy Illinois on Friday August 5th, 6-8pm. Cathy would like simply to be remembered. However, anyone wishing to make donations can forward them to Quincy Preserves, PO Box 1012, Quincy, IL 62306-1012 or the Quincy Historical Society, 425 S. 12th Street, Quincy, IL 62301.

9 Comments

  1. Muz Hussain on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    Oh Allen, I was so shocked, and so deeply saddened when I heard the news about Cathy. She was always so kind, friendly, and gracious to me. I am so very sorry. I offer you my condolence, and I do hope that you are doing okay.

  2. Candace (Browne) Landers on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    Rick and family,so sorry to hear of your sister’s passing. Praying for you all,may God wrap you in comfort.

  3. Kevin and Jan (Horlacher) Carnes on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    Rick and family, I am sorry for your loss. May you experience God’s comfort and peace as you grieve and as you enjoy sharing memories.

  4. Dennis Mathewson on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
    Recently I lost my dear mother,
    and found great comfort in the
    Holy Bible, like at Isaiah 25
    verse 8 – “The Sovereign Lord
    will swallow up death forever,
    and wipe away the tears from
    all faces.” For more comfort,
    I turn to the website at:
    http://www.jw.org (Search:Comfort)

  5. Kathleen Griffin Hopson on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    I am so saddened by your loss. Cathy always lit up a room with her wonderful smile and uplifting spirit. Although we lost contact, I remembered her constant encouragement when I was growing up. God Bless each of you as you walk thru this time and share all those precious memories!

  6. Candace (Browne) Landers on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    Rick and family,so sorry to hear of your sister’s passing. Praying for you all,may God wrap you in comfort.

  7. Dawn & Lee Stutzman on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    So very sorry to hear about Aunt Cathy . We loved her so much and she will always hold a special place in our hearts . Our deepest condolences are with you Uncle Alan and Katie and Carrie and Josh and the boys xxxx

  8. Sara Miles on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    Rick, Allen, Katie and Carrie, Although your hearts ache with loss, may you be comforted by a lifetime of happy memories. She left a light that will never go out. Luv and prayers, Sara, Ron and Stu

  9. Lynn and Nancy Walker on November 16, 2022 at 4:41 pm

    I am so sad to hear of your loss Allen, Katie & Carrie. I am profoundly in shock. I am hoping that you all are leaning on each other and God’s love.

    Love and prayers, Nancy

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