Catherine Ann Grizinski

Boardman-Catherine Ann Grizinski passed away at the age of 69 on December 21, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born on March 12, 1955 in Youngstown, Ohio, the oldest daughter of Clarence and Shirley (Dupe) Ritzert. Cathy, as she was known, graduated from Lowellville High School in 1973. Cathy graduated from Youngstown State University in 1977 with a bachelor's degree in social work and furthered her education with a Master's degree in (MSEd) in 2000.

In November of 2024, Cathy retired from Help Network of Northeast Ohio (formerly Help Hotline) after 47 years, serving as Associate Director and then Director of their Guardian Program. Cathy was a facilitator of local survivors of suicide support groups. Prior to her employment, she volunteered as a crisis line worker at Help Hotline. 

She was married on August 29, 1981 to Richard Grizinski and the two shared over 43 years of marriage. They raised their daughter, Jessica, and welcomed two grandchildren, Alexander and Logan. 

Cathy was an active member of St. Dominic Catholic Parish. She enjoyed spending time with her family, attending local events, and going out to dinner. Her commitment to her family was unwavering. Personally and professionally, she held steadfast to beliefs that given the skills and support, people can and do change their behavior and lives for the better. 

Cathy leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, Richard; daughter, Jessica Grizinski; grandchildren, Alex and Logan; sisters, Rose (Tom) Pitzulo, Christine (John) Bielski, and Sharon Weems; brother, Alan Ritzert; sister-in-law, Barbara Turkal; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Liz and Tim Baynes; and many nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces, friends, and colleagues. 

In addition to her parents, Cathy was preceded in death by her sisters, Eileen Malysa and Debra Ritzert; and brother-in-law, Randall Weems. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Hospice House for their kindness, care, and support of Cathy.

Private services were held. She was laid to rest at Holy Rosary Cemetery in Lowellville. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Help Network of Northeast Ohio, 1344 5th Ave, Youngstown, OH 44504, Mahoning Valley Second Harvest Food Bank, 2805 Salt Springs Rd, Youngstown, OH 44509, or the American Association of Suicidology, www.suicidology.org/donate. 

Arrangements are being handled by the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Lowellville. Please visit www.beckerobits.com to share memories and condolences.