Phan, Catherine “Cathy”

26 Mar Phan, Catherine “Cathy”

April 4th, 1956 – October 31st, 2022

Catherine “Cathy” (Diehl) Phan, 66, of Germantown, MD, originally of Newry, PA, died on October 31st, 2022, following a long, valiant fight against an unrelenting illness. Cathy passed at home surrounded by her loving family.

Cathy was born April 4th, 1956, to Margaret and the late Robert Diehl. The only daughter and eldest of eight, Cathy learned from a young age how to care for those around her. She graduated from Newry’s Central High School in 1974, and then went to work as a seamstress. She met the love of her life, the late Diep Phan, while playing bingo at St. Patrick’s Church in Newry. They married on August 20th, 1982, and moved to Langley Park, Maryland to start their life together. They both worked at Magruder’s Grocery, and before long, Cathy gave birth to their son Michael. Cathy recently retired from the American Podiatric Medical Association, a job she enjoyed immensely.

Cathy loved to give herself to others, and spent a large part of her life volunteering. She became involved with the Boy Scouts when Mike was young, and continued to support Scouting at meetings and day camps until 2021. Cathy received Scouting’s Silver Beaver Award in honor of her long-time work and commitment. Cathy also enjoyed her weekly bread runs to donate food and goods to the St. Martin’s Food Pantry. Additionally, she was a long-time Superintendent of the Home Arts Building at the Montgomery County Fair, where despite her nickname of “Trouble”, she was always available to answer any question a fair-goer might have. Cathy was happiest when crocheting a gift for friends and loved ones, shopping for a great bargain, or watching a MASH marathon with her son.

Cathy is survived by her son Michael (husband of Sara) of Clarksburg, with whom she resided, her mother Margaret, and brothers Randy (husband of Bev), Gary, Gene, Wayne (husband of Robin), and Earl (husband of Cheryl), beloved pets Olive, John, and Jean, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Diep, father Robert, father-in law Revered Norman Imgrund, and brothers Eric and Greg. Her family takes great comfort in their joyful reunion.