In Loving Memory of Pamela “Pam” Catardi (née VanArsdale)

Pamela “Pam” Catardi, 79, of Wheeling, passed away June 26th leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and countless memories that will forever live in the hearts of those who knew her.

Pam was the beloved wife of Robert Catardi for 60 wonderful years. Together they built a life filled with unwavering love, family traditions, and a home where everyone felt welcome.

She was the proud and devoted mom of Deborah (Brian) Whitecotton, Stephanie (David Heldt) Catardi, Melissa (Todd) Pompilio, and Patricia (John) Major. Nothing made Pam happier than being surrounded by her family. She was an adored grandma to Jessica, Ryan (Sarah), and Brennan, a proud Great-Grams to Vinny, Riley, and Joey, and a loving grand-dog mom to Trixi.

If you knew Pam, you knew she never liked to show up empty-handed. Whether it was a little gift, a thoughtful surprise, or one of her beloved bars of soap, she loved making people smile. She would often say, “I have something for you,” with the biggest grin on her face. It wasn’t about what she was giving—it was about making someone feel special. That was simply who Pam was.

She found joy in the little things: family gatherings, holiday celebrations, laughing until everyone else was laughing too, and making sure no one left her house without feeling loved—or without taking something home. Her kindness wasn’t grand or showy. It was woven into the way she lived every day.

Pam’s greatest accomplishment wasn’t something she earned—it was the family she loved with all her heart. She was their biggest cheerleader, their safe place, and the one who always remembered birthdays, milestones, and the little moments that mattered most.

While her family is heartbroken to say goodbye, they are grateful for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every “I have something for you.” Her love will continue to live on in the stories we tell, the traditions we keep, and every act of kindness done in her memory.

In keeping with one of Pam’s favorite traditions, her family invites you to take a bar of soap in her memory. It would have made her smile to know that she is still giving to those around her.

Memorial Visitation

Thursday, July 9, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.at Kolssak Funeral Home, 189 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling.

A private final resting ceremony will be held with the immediate family on Thursday, July 16, in honor of what would have been Pam and Bob’s 60th wedding anniversary.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.