Cathy Aftuck, 58, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her husband and children, on Monday, April 1, 2013 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the beloved wife and best friend of Edward Aftuck; devoted and proud mother to Martin Aftuck, Catherine “Catie” Aftuck, Donna Aftuck Williams and Alex Aftuck; and loving Grancie to grandchildren Myla Auld, Max Williams and expected grandbabies Luke Williams and Lily Catherine Aftuck.
Cathy was born in Macon, GA on September 30, 1954 and grew up in Owego, NY where she graduated from Owego Free Academy, class of 1972. She was the daughter of Cleo Sopka and the late Martin Sopka. Cathy also leaves behind her sisters Anna Sopka, Mary Dube, Marjie Heeman, Martha Camber, and Meg Girnis, as well as numerous extended family members and close friends.
Cathy was an incredible person who loved spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren. Traveling with her husband and spending time with her family brought her the greatest joy and pride in life.
In addition to 34 years of their happy marriage, Cathy was also the co-owner of many businesses with Ed. Starting in the 70s with Aftuck Accounting in Greene, NY, then with many adventures along the way, moving the Aftuck Family to New Smyrna Beach, FL where they owned Napa Auto Parts, Ideal Car Wash NSB and Ideal Car Wash & Laundromat Edgewater, and since 1995 working side-by-side with Ed at Aftuck Tax & Accounting Services Inc.
While Cathy’s time on Earth ended too soon, her giving, courageous, and selfless spirit will live on through her family. Cathy meant more to people than she ever realized, as her presence was a gift that we will always be thankful for. The world truly lost a legend that can never be replaced, but will never be forgotten.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 4 at 2:00pm at the Baldwin Brothers Heritage Place 1 North Causeway New Smyrna Beach FL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Cathy’s name may be made to the Hospice of Volusia/Flagler SE Care Center 4220 S. Ridgewood Avenue Edgewater FL 32141.
I see you let hospice in and help guide you guys, this leads me to believe that the choices all of you made together where selfless and without a doubt compassionate. My thoughts and love go out to you guys. Ms. Aftuck was nothing but the kindest mom I can remember. God bless you today, tomorrow and forever after. Truly a dear old friend, Varinia
Love, Bobby, Sarah, Kristen and Sam
I came to this website to read my fathers guest book and I saw your mothers name. I'm so sorry for your loss... The loss of a parent is devistating. Se was such an amazing woman. I remember all the fun at swim meets with her cheering all of us on. She along with my father, who also passed away of cancer 2 weeks ago, can look down on us from above free of pain and disease. My thought and prayers are with you and yours. Here is something that I read that helps with the pain and emptiness I have had im my heart the past 2 weeks while I trying to make since of his passing... I hope it brings you some comfort during this difficult time.
What is dying?
A ship sails and I stand watching 'til she fades on the horizon and someone at my side says "she is gone". Gone where? Gone from my sight, that is all. She is just as large as when I saw her. The diminished size and total loss of sight is in me, not in her, and just at that moment when someone at my side says "she is gone", There are others who are watching her coming, and other voices take up a glad shout, "here she comes"! That is dying.
~Bishop Brent
This brings peace to my heart knowing that even though our loved ones are out of our sight, they are still fully there in soul and spirit, with loved ones by their side who have been waiting to see them again. Watching over us until we get to meet with them again.
XOXO
Pam