CATHERINE ROSE ROCHON

RUTLAND — Catherine R. Rochon, a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 1, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born Jan. 28, 1932, in Benson, Vt., the daughter of Bernard J. and Velna J. (Doane) Burke.

Catherine was a homemaker until all her children were in school, it was then that Catherine began a career, working for 25 years as a cook at the coffee shop in the Rutland Regional Medical Center. After retiring from that position in 1997 she began working as a cook, for many years at St. Joseph Kervick. Catherine left that position to care for her husband until he passed in 2003. Catherine’s place of worship was Christ the King Church.

Catherine was an avid cook and was well known for many of her dishes. She loved to cook and bake for family reunions and gatherings and was always asked to make her famous baked beans and strawberry rhubarb pie. Catherine was always willing to share her recipes and enjoyed looking through recipe books. She was always just a phone call away for a question about her recipes.

Catherine dedicated her life to her huge family, and was known by many as Kak, and Aunt Kake. She was also fortunate to have had many great neighbors in her life. She will be dearly missed by many.

Catherine married Rene E. Rochon on April 25, 1953 in Orwell, Vt. They made their home in Bridport, Vt. After farming for a short period they relocated to Rutland, Vt.

Rene predeceased her on March 20, 2003. She is survived by their five children: Richard R. Rochon and his wife, Roné, of Denton, Md.; Diane C. Saltis and her husband, George, of Poultney, Vt.; Jane M. Graham and her husband, Donald; Ivan C. Rochon and his wife, Sally; and Brian E. Rochon and his wife, Becky, all of Rutland, VT; 10 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces and cousins. A very special thank you to nieces Lise Fifield and Debbie Burke for providing great care for their Aunt Kake.

Catherine was predeceased by her father, mother, sister Theresa (Roland) Nantel, sister Mary (John) Plouffe, and brother Donald (Sandy) Burke.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, July 6, at Clifford Funeral Home, 2 Washington Street, Rutland, from 4 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Monday, July 7, at 11 a.m., at Christ the King Church. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. A reception will follow the burial at Christ the King Church Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region, located at 7 Albert Cree Drive, Rutland, VT 05701.

Arrangements are under the direction of Clifford Funeral Home. Online condolences at www.cliffordfuneralhome.com. ◊