Catherine Stella McArthur Finlay, age 86, passed away on August 16, 2008 at her residence where she had been under the loving care of her family and Yolo hospice. Catherine was born on October 23, 1921 in Inglewood, California to John and Annie McArthur.
At the age of four, Catherine suffered injuries from a fall that resulted in the loss of her hearing. She went on to attend a school for the deaf and blind and she graduated from L.A. Polytech High in 1939 at the age of 17. While attending school she became the World Lawn Bowling Champion.
During WWII Catherine was employed in Los Angeles packing vitamins for the soldiers, during this time she began corresponding with a soldier by the name of Robert Finlay and on February 14, 1946 they were married in San Francisco. Years later Bob and Catherine moved to Davis, California where they resided on the UC Davis Campus where Bob was employed as the Head Sheppard and Catherine was employed with the Department of Bacteriology. It was during this time that they became parents to two wonderful sons, John and Alex. In 1965 they moved to Dixon and following 20 years with UC Davis, Catherine retired. Catherine was a member of the Order of Eastern Star for more than 50 years, she also enjoyed association with the Rebekahs, VFW Ladies Auxiliary and the Dixon Seniors.
She is survived by her loving family, John Finlay (Anna); Alex Finlay (Gina); grandchildren, Danny; Marty and Robyn; great-grandchildren, Morgan; Drew and Owen. Also her faithful dogs, Mac and Bonnie. She will also be missed by her most recent and loving friend and aid, Nadine. She was preceded in death by her wonderful husband, Bob, in December 1997.
At her request please make donation to the Yolo Hospice or the Shriners Hospital for Children in lieu of flowers.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. at Wiscombes Davis Funeral Chapel located at 116 D Street in Davis, following the service a gathering will be held at 831 L Street in Davis. A private interment will be held at the Davis Cemetery.