Catherine Ann Cronk

Catherine Ann "Cathie" Cronk (Irving), age 82, passed away peacefully at her home on January 30, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida. Born on November 17, 1943, in Dearborn, Michigan, Cathie lived a life defined by compassion, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Cathie was the daughter of Lina and John Irving and grew up with a deep appreciation for family and friends-values she would carry with her throughout her life. She pursued higher education at the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, earning her teaching certificate. Though she began her career in education early on, her path took a beautiful turn with the birth of her first child in 1969. From that moment forward, motherhood became her true calling and passion.

As a mother to three children-C. Bradley Cronk (Michelle Mullineaux), Kelli (Cronk) LaPage, and Craig Cronk-Cathie created a home filled with warmth, creativity, and love. She was fiercely protective yet nurturing, encouraging each of her children to grow into their own unique selves. Her home became a haven not only for her family but for neighborhood children and friends as well. With home-cooked meals, imaginative games, and an open-door policy, "Mrs. Cronk" was beloved by many beyond her immediate family.

Holidays and celebrations on Windham Lane were magical under Cathie's care-each celebration thoughtfully crafted to bring joy and wonder. She brought so many together under her roof, creating memories that will stay with them forever. She instilled in her children that same love of family and community, a strong moral compass, and a deep sense of gratitude for the people around them.

Cathie also had an immense love of nature that led to many adventures and memories for her family. In Michigan winters she led cross-country ski adventures with three kids and three dogs in tow-often pulling them herself by sled across snowy trails. Summers were filled with hikes through the woods, gardening projects, and animal rescues. And of course, anyone who knew her knew her Siberian Huskies held a special place in her heart.

In the early 2000s, Cathie relocated to Fort Myers, Florida. There she continued to be an anchor for her family while embracing new opportunities to give back. She re-entered the teaching profession and spent two decades working with young students in the Fort Myers area-most notably within the Lee County School District during her final 15 years in education. Teaching kindergarten through second grade, Cathie brought patience, structure, and kindness into every classroom she entered. Her students adored her for the same reasons so many others did: her ability to challenge with love and guide with grace.

Even as she dedicated herself professionally to nurturing young minds, Cathie remained ever-present for her family-especially cherishing time with her granddaughter Taylor Ann LaPage. She made frequent trips back north to celebrate birthdays, holidays, dance recitals and volleyball games.

Cathie's compassion extended far beyond her immediate circle. Throughout her life-and particularly during her later years-she offered care and comfort to many facing illness or end-of-life challenges. Her selflessness was not just a trait; it was a mission that shaped how she moved through the world.

Cathie found new joys along the Gulf Coast-she LOVED the warm weather and constant sunshine, took strolls along the beach and filled what little time she spent at home with birdwatching from her favorite spot overlooking a pond from her back lanai. These quiet moments reflected the serenity she found in nature's presence, and in her "second" home.

Cathie is survived by her three loving children: C. Bradley Cronk (Michelle Mullineaux), Kelli (Cronk) LaPage, and Craig Cronk; as well as by her cherished granddaughter Taylor Ann LaPage. She is also survived by her sister Janice (Irving) Fultz; cousins Pat and Sue Lewis; sister-in-law Patty (Cronk) Fragner; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lina and John Irving and by her beloved nephew Gary Hellum.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Michigan at a later date.

In honor of Cathie's lifelong love of animals and nature, and her work with them, a memorial fund will be established in her name at CROW (Clinic for Rehabilitation of Wildlife) in Sanibel, Florida.

May Catherine's memory live on through the lives she touched so deeply. She will be deeply missed, but forever loved.