Catherine Steele

Catherine (Petterino) Steele, 103, of Amsterdam, NY, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center of COVID-19. She was born on October 30, 1917 in Rome, NY, the daughter of the late Ferdinand and Fortunata (Ridolfo) Petterino. She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Northville. Catherine worked hard her entire life. She was employed with General Electric as a crane operator and Mohawk Mills, where she met her husband, Nash Steele. Catherine and Nash owned an apple orchard in Northville which they tended along with flower gardens and blueberries. They retired to their peaceful camp on the Sacandaga Lake in Edinburg. They entertained all the kids there and we all have fond memories of “The Camp.” She was world famous for her carrot cake, zucchini bread, molasses and chocolate chip cookies. Catherine loved cats and had several of them, all whom she spoke to in Italian. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. Her giving nature, sunny personality, sense of humor and tough as nails grit made her a force to be reckoned with. Her absence will be deeply felt, but we have wonderful memories.

Catherine was predeceased by her husband of 26 years, Nash Steele; son, Frederick Meller; brothers, Joseph, James and Tony Petterino; and sisters, Rose Urban, Carmella Morini and Barbara Moore.

Surviving are her daughter, Barbara (Ross) Maniaci; grandchildren, Kathleen (Dennis McGough) Maniaci, Ross (Susan) Maniaci, Matthew (John Samuelson) Maniaci and Jenny Leveille; great-granddaughter, Ana Rosaria Maniaci McGough; nieces, Abby (Marsha) Urban Rifkin, Sandra (Richard) Kaminski, Dawn Gates and Linda Moore; nephews, Robert and James Moore; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center for providing Catherine with loving care.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no calling hours or funeral services.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Loretto Foundation, 700 East Brighton Ave., Syracuse, NY 13205.