Catherine Best

Catherine J. "Cathie" Best, 66, passed away Friday, November 16, 2018 at the Midland Hospice House in Topeka. Catherine Jean was born to Gilby and Libby Trussell in Strong City, KS April 19, 1952. She grew up in Cottonwood Falls riding bikes, swimming in creeks and making family train trips to California, New York, St. Louis, Grand Canyon and many other adventures. Her family moved to Newton, KS after 8th grade where she graduated from Newton High School in 1970. She met her husband Gary during her last semester at KU where she graduated from the School of Occupational Therapy in 1974. After graduation she moved to Sedalia, MO where she worked at the Children's Therapy Center until 1977. When she moved back to Topeka, she practiced Occupational Therapy at Memorial Hospital, Stormont Vail, Shawnee County Health Department and the Capper's Foundation. Cathie married Gary Austin Best under a huge ash tree at their future home on Oct. 1, 1977. This was their home for over 40 years. They were blessed with two daughters: Amy Jean on Dec. 13, 1978 and Amanda Rose on Dec. 16, 1980. Other survivors include her mother, Libby Trussell; brother, Larry (Pam) Trussell; sister, Lee Anne (Wade) Coester; four grandchildren, Clara, Grace, Joel and Trysten. She was preceded in death by her father Gilbert Trussell. Although she worked with Gary at their physical therapy practice for several years, her favorite job was babysitting their grandchildren. Some things that brought joy to Cathie's life included volunteering, supporting others, attending the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival with her family, Easter basket hunts, and much more. She is deeply missed, but those who know Cathie know she is rejoicing with her Savior. Memorial services will be at 4:00 P.M. Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at Western Hills Church in Topeka, where the family will receive friends from 3:00 P.M. until service time. Inurnment will be in the Dover Cemetery at a later date. Because of her love of the Dover community, memorial contributions may be made to Dover Pride, P.O. Box 238, Dover, Kansas 66420.