Catherine Ann VanWert (Hegney)
August 3, 1940 – August 2, 2026
We are deeply saddened to share that Catherine (Cathy) Ann VanWert, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026, just one day shy of her 86th birthday, surrounded by both of her children in her final days. Cathy was born a twin on August 3, 1940, to Fredrick and Catherine Hegney in Flushing, Queens, New York.
After graduating from Holy Cross High School, Cathy sought adventure and new experiences. She spent a year working as a waitress in Hawaii, embracing her love for travel and meeting new people. In 1965, she worked at the New York World’s Fair, an experience she cherished throughout her life.
Cathy welcomed her first child, Bob, before moving to Tampa, Florida, where she laid down roots and later had her daughter, Karen.
She worked at Seagrams for over 20 years as an Executive Assistant. Seagrams was a renowned beverage and spirits company, and Cathy was a dedicated employee, known for her work ethic and commitment.
Cathy later built a successful career in collections at Capital One. Her remarkable skills and tenacity set a high bar—so much so that her managers created incentives for others to try and “beat Cathy.” Her colleagues respected her expertise, and she was admired for her tenacity, professionalism, and sense of humor in the workplace.
Cathy was always on the lookout for a good bargain. She found joy in exploring garage sales, estate sales, and flea markets, and she nurtured a fond appreciation for antiques. She enjoyed a nice glass (or two) of wine in good company and loved playing cards with her friends. A loyal sports fan, Cathy cheered passionately for both the Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. She also had a special place in her heart for Dachshunds.
Above all, Cathy will be remembered as a charismatic and social person, loved by many, and who had a true gift for conversation.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick and Catherine, and her brothers, Freddie and Richard. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Robert (Lauri) and Karen; her granddaughter, Olivia; and her sister, Mary Landi (Joe).
The family invites friends and loved ones to join them for a Celebration of Life on Friday, August 7th, from 12 PM – 2 PM in the Community Room at Carrollwood Village, near 4212 Fairway Run. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay in Cathy’s memory.
7 Comments
Anonymous
A beautiful tribute to your mother. Love you both and cherish her memories, aunt Mary, and uncle Joe.🙏❤️
Paula Foster
Bob, Lauri, and Olivia, our deepest condolences to all of you. We never had the opportunity to meet her, but sounds like she was special lady that spread joy wherever she went. Much love, Uncle Mike & Aunt Paula
Cindy Riggs
My condolences to the family. Cathy and I were friends for many years. I will cherish all the fun and good times we had throughout the years.
MICHELLE VOLPI
My condolences to Karen and VanWert family. A lovely tribute to your mother. May your memories be cherished in your hearts forever.
Jeanne
I met Cathy through her daughter Karen. Karen and I played soccer together in college. She used to travel up with my mom and they would come watch our games. She was a great cheerleader and an amazing person. Cathy loved her family and always treated me like her other daughter during our college days. She will be greatly missed. Sending love and light to Karen and her family as they grieve Cathy🫂🫂🙏🙏
Gail Crosby
I met Cathy September 2015 when I moved to Fairway. We visited and also helped each other as we could, both dog lovers.
She fought the Parkinson’s bravely and is now at peace.
Gail Crosby
James Williams
I was lucky enough to know Mrs.Van Wert when I was a boy growing up across the street from when I was 4 to 9 years old, my mother Mildred was one of her best friends, when my mom passed in 2016 she called me to make sure I was okay, I had been lucky enough to ride by and see her in 2010, first time I had seen her since 1972 when she let me stay with her and Bobby after we had moved to Tallahassee, my first time away from home, I remember I got home sick but she talked me through it, she always was a Great friend to my mother until her death, I was lucky to know her!!!