Catherine M. Hesler

Catherine M. Hesler (née Carse), aged 88, passed away peacefully at Daughters of Sarah nursing home on July 18, 2024, in Albany, NY.  She was born on November 5, 1935, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where her father, Thomas Carse, worked for General Electric.  Cathy was a cherished member of the Schenectady community, having moved there from Albany in her 20s.

Catherine, known as Cathy, graduated from Albany High School as valedictorian and later earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University at Albany, SUNY.  In early years, Cathy was a dance instructor at Arthur Murray Dance Studio where she met her future husband, Edward.  She later dedicated 25 years of her life as a social worker in Schenectady County, where she was respected for her compassion and commitment to helping children and women at risk.

Cathy had a deep appreciation for the arts, especially classical music, opera and jazz, which brought great joy to her life. She was a member of the First Reformed Church in downtown Schenectady, where she sang in the choir for many years.

She is survived by her eldest son and his wife, Tim and Wendy Hesler  of White Plains, and her granddaughters, Ann and Kate, who live in New York City.  Ed Hesler, her youngest son, continues to live in Schenectady.  Cathy’s husband, Edward J. Hesler, preceded her in death in 1987.

Catherine's contributions to her community and the lives she touched as a social worker will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.  Bond Funeral Home in Schenectady, NY, is assisting the family during this time.