Cathy Lake

Cathy J. Lake, nee Pierson, 68, of Swansea, IL, born Wednesday, December 19, 1956, in Wichita, KS, passed away Friday, September 19, 2025 in Swansea, IL, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Cathy lived a life filled with creativity, patience, and love. From a young age, she had a natural talent for working with her hands and an endless curiosity for new skills. Over the years, she became gifted in many arts and crafts: sewing: spinning and knitting her own wool, stained glass, jewelry making, and wood and chip carving. Each piece she created carried not only beauty, but also her kindness, thoughtfulness, and care. Cathy completed her Bachelors degree in Management/ Human Resources from Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas.

On November 14, 1976, Cathy married the love of her life, Don, and together they shared 49 years of devotion, laughter, and companionship. Their marriage was a true partnership and a shining example of love and dedication.

Cathy will be remembered for her warmth, her creativity, and the joy she found in both her crafts and the people she loved. Those fortunate enough to receive one of her homemade treasures will forever carry a piece of her heart. She will be deeply missed by her family, her many friends, and all whose lives she touched with her generous spirit.

She was preceded in death by her: 

• Parents: Robert and Vera Pierson, nee Fleetwood
• Son:Jeremiah Lake

Surviving is her beloved:

• Husband: Donald Lake of Swansea, IL
• Daughter: Tiffany Lake of Wood River, IL
• Aunt: Sharon (Peter) Fagan
• Brothers:
  • Calvin Saxton
  • Timothy Saxton
• Sisters:
  • Connie Saxton
  • Linda (Kevin) Simpson
  • Carolyn (Frank) Bayless
• Nephew: Michael (Hannah) Saxton
• Nieces:
  • Sarah (Grant) Saxton Herbel
  • Hannah Saxton
• Fur babies:
  • Ruby Rose
  • Applejax

Memorials: Memorials may be in care of Don Lake to help assist with funeral expenses.

Celebration of Life: Celebration of Life will be held December 13, 2025 at 4:00 pm at the Oakhill Seventh Day Adventist Church (7864 N. Illinois St. Caseyville, IL 62232).