Cathleen is a strong believer in the importance of companionship and connection. Born in Aberdeen, South Dakota, she grew up as one of ten children in a large, blended family. Her siblings ranged widely in age—her oldest brother was 21 years her senior. After her mother passed away during childbirth, Cathleen was raised among brothers and sisters from both of her parents’ previous marriages. She lived in South Dakota until age eleven, then moved to Jamestown, North Dakota, where she later graduated from Presentation College with a teaching degree.
She says life took a meaningful turn when she moved to Minneapolis to teach first grade at St. Richard’s Catholic School. While boarding with her future husband’s family, she was invited to accompany their son, David Otten, to his prom. Friendship grew into love, and the pair married when she was 23 and he was 19. They shared nearly 24 years together before David passed away in 1989, leaving Cathleen to raise Janelle and Joel, with her oldest son Jim already an adult. Cathleen’s career included teaching, banking, and payroll work at Northwest Airlines.
After David’s death, she remarried a college sweetheart, and although the relationship was different from her first marriage, they remained together for many years. She later settled in Minnesota, working at a Hallmark store and as a receptionist for a chiropractor whose family became dear to her.
Today, Cathleen lives with her sons Jim and Joel. She uses oxygen and a wheelchair, but her spirit remains active and curious. She loves reading—especially mysteries—crocheting blankets, crafting, watching cooking shows, and enjoying the Outlander series. Board games, cards, and good conversation bring her joy. She has one grandson and two great-grandchildren.
She looks forward to friendship, laughter, and the simple pleasure of sharing a cup of coffee.
