Cathi D. DuMars, 57, of Vero Beach, passed away after a battle with cancer on Jan. 11, 2016, surrounded by family and friends, while under the compassionate care of VNA Hospice.
She is survived by her husband, Patrick A. DuMars; daughter Melissa (Ben) Mattek of Vero Beach; sons Benny Schwey of Vermont and Clayton Schwey of Vero Beach; three grandchildren, Nelly Mattek & Bailey Mattek and Hannah Schwey; mother Florence Votrobek; brother Danny Votrobek; sister Ruby Curtis; half-brother Billy Sudbrock; half-sister Shannon Skinner; lifelong friend and dearest cousin, Laura Votrobek; three nieces, Barbara, Elaina, and Hope Curtis; nephew Daniel (Joy) Votrobek and their daughter, Gabrielle.
She was predeceased by her father Clayton Votrobek.
DuMars was born on May 25, 1958, in Vero Beach to father, Clayton Votrobek and mother, Florence Votrobek.
She started her professional career at Mecca Nursing Home as a CNA. She later switched careers and went into the automotive field, where she worked for Fred Coyne Chevrolet and then for 17 years, she helped her husband, Pat, run “Pat’s Auto Parts” on 12th Street.
DuMars loved to be on the golf course with her husband, was an avid NASCAR fan, and loved baking for her family and friends. She and her husband supported Amara Shrine Temple where she enjoyed working the fundraisers, where all proceeds went to the Shriners Hospitals for burned and crippled children.
She remained a brave, strong and courageous woman throughout her final months. She was a warm and caring woman and was loved by all who knew her. Her grace and humor, selflessness, and love she shared with all those around her will forever be missed.
The family would like to thank the doctors (especially Dr. Everhardt “the best doctor in the country”), nurses, and staff of Indian River Medical Center fourth floor, and to express our gratitude for the kindness and dedication from the entire staff of VNA Hospice and also to Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory for handling the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Cathi’s name to VNA Hospice of IRC, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Cathi’s last wish was for everyone to remember, “Tomorrow is promised to no one,” so create a happy and peaceful environment, explore life every day, have freedom of the spirit through laughter, trust in what you love, beautify your smile with kind words and treasure the small things in life.
