Cathy Marie Hoiseth, age 66, of Eyota, MN, passed away peacefully at her home on November 5, 2024. Cathy was born on April 24, 1958, in Owatonna, MN, to Wesley and Helen (Puffenburger) Waits.

Cathy's life was one of warmth, love, and laughter. After graduating high school, she later attended Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC), where she trained as a clinical assistant. For nearly two decades, Cathy worked at the Mayo Clinic, where she touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues with her kind and bubbly personality. She retired at the age of 57, after a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others.

Cathy was a vibrant soul who found joy in many aspects of life. She loved to camp at the river, enjoy pontoon rides, and was a frequent traveler alongside her domestic partner, Mark Engel. She had a love for gardening, whether it was growing flowers or vegetables. Cathy was also known for her entertaining spirit—her home was always filled with laughter, and she was the heart of any gathering. Her infectious energy and chatty nature made her a friend to everyone she met.

Cathy adored her family, and she especially cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved cats.

She is survived by the love of her life, Mark Engel; daughter, Tina (David) Schultz; granddaughters, Danielle (Brandon Silker) Timm, Skye (Samuel Gochnauer) Nelson; grandson, Jayce (Kallijo Gleason) Nelson; and great-grandchildren, Stella, Mia, and William. Cathy is also survived by her stepmother, Louise Houghton; siblings, Brad (Angela) Waits, Jeff (Karen) Waits, Barbara (David) Walters, Charlotte (Mark) Buck; and several nieces and nephews.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Helen Waits; sisters, Janet and Linda and by her brother, Denny.

A celebration of Cathy's life will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, 1105 12 ^th St. SE, Rochester. Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, November 11, 2024 at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery, Kasson, MN. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.mackenfuneralhome.com