Vicki Cato

Vicki Lynn Cato, beloved daughter of William Cole and Rose Ann Cole, was born June 18, 1970, in St. Louis, Missouri. She entered into eternal life March 31, 2024, at IU Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Vicki graduated from Lindbergh High School in St. Louis and attended Meramec Community College where she received an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education.

On Feb. 5, 2005, Vicki exchanged vows with Bryan Cato at St. Peter Cathedral in St. Charles, Missouri, marking the beginning of a beautiful union that blossomed into a home full of love and incredible memories.

Vicki was a cherished and devoted wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend. Her life was one filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for those around her. Vicki’s was preceded in death by her father, William Cole. She is survived by her loving husband, Bryan of their home; and children, Millie, Isaac, Audrey, and Owen Cato; her mother. Rose Ann Cole and step-father Bill Kueneke of St. Louis; stepmother, Mary Cole; and brother, Jacob Cole of Lake St. Louis, Missouri, as well as fathers-in-law and mothers-in-law ,Randal and Susan Cato of Poplar Bluff, and Ron and Cheri Dellinger (Cato) of Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Vicki dedicated her career to making a difference in the lives of her students. She worked tirelessly as a Paraprofessional in the Special Education Department at Poplar Bluff High School, touching the hearts of countless students with her kindness and compassion and previously worked as the Pre-School Director at Sacred Heart School.

In the community, Vicki was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School, St. Anne’s Society, and Camp Re-New-All. She found joy in living her faith out loud and connecting with those around her, always willing to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

Vicki had a zest for life that was infectious, and she pursued her interests with passion and enthusiasm. She had recently discovered a love for baking sourdough bread, finding a new level of creativity in the kitchen. Vicki also enjoyed attending live music concerts, Cardinal games, UFC events, tending to her garden, and most of all, being the biggest cheerleader for her children.

Those who knew Vicki best remember her as a woman of many characteristics: comical, loving, supportive, jovial, and full of life. Her contagious laugh could light up a room and her presence brought warmth and comfort to those around her.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of Vicki Lynn Cato at her visitation service which will be held at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral Home in Poplar Bluff from 5 - 7 p.m. April 10 and at her Funeral Mass, which will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on North Eighth Street in Poplar Bluff, at 10 a.m. April 11.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the friends and family of Vicki Lynn Cato.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com