Janet Louise Dickey Cate
Janet Louise Dickey Cate, age 64, died peacefully at her home surrounded by her beloved family in Arundel, Maine on July 5, 2016.
Janet is survived by her husband, David Neal Cate of Arundel, Maine; two children, Benjamin Neal Cate of Portland, Maine and Johanna Cate McFaden of Mendon, Massachusetts; and their respective spouses, Madeline Cate and Andrew McFaden. She is survived by two beautiful grandchildren, August Neal Cate and Lucas James McFaden. Janet is also survived by her brother-in-law, Udo Guddat of Melbourne Beach, Florida and several cousins.
Janet was predeceased by her two sisters, Diane Frasier of Clearwater, Florida and Marilyn Guddat of Melbourne Beach, Florida.
Janet was born on August 21, 1951 in Syosset, New York to Melville and Linnea Dickey. She graduated from Colorado State University, where she met her husband David; they began their marriage of 41 years on the eastern plains of Colorado, while David taught and Janet worked for the local government. In 1979 the Cates moved to Maine where they raised their family.
People from across many generations will remember Janet from her 25-year career at the Kennebunk Free Library, where she held almost every role. Janet began her service as the Children's Librarian, led the Library for two years as Director, and retired as Assistant Director and Adult Services Librarian. During her time at the library she implemented many programs that strengthened the community, including the Edition Road Race, pet shows, operas, concerts, and art exhibits. Janet was extremely dedicated to her career.
Janet was almost as proud of her career with the library as she was of her loving family. She was a loving mother of two and relished her time, brief though it was, as a doting grandmother. She taught her children by example that love, compassion, acceptance, and kindness are the keys to a beautiful life. Janet taught everyone with whom she came in contact how to live life to the fullest: whether riding her moped, paddling her kayak, or sharing a laugh about a good book. She taught us how to be strong in the face of sickness and how to die with grace.
An outdoor service will be held at the Cate residence in Arundel, Maine on Sunday, July 10, 2016 at 10:30 AM. There is limited parking at the Cate residence; therefore, transportation is being offered to all, leaving from the Kennebunk Free Library at 10 AM. Questions about transportation may be directed to the Library 207-985-2173.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kennebunk Free Library in loving memory of Janet.
Online condolences may be expressed below.
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