Obituary of Marcella Kataja

Marcella Ruth (Huwe) Kataja of Gurnee, Illinois stepped into Heaven on November 21, 2020 at her home surrounded by family. Marcella was born May 18th, 1950 in Minot North Dakota to Clifford and Margaret Huwe. She graduated from Zion Benton High School in 1968 and was married to David Gonyo in 1969 until his death in 1970. In 1972 she married Tapio Kataja whom she was married to for 48 years. She was a devoted and loving mother to daughters Tonja Kataja, Anneli (Kevin) Powell, Amanda (Stephen) Qualley and beloved grandmother to Matthew (Kylie) Powell, KayLee Powell, Corbin Powell, Isaac Qualley and Eeva Qualley. She was a loving sister to Melvin (Sue) Huwe, Marlyn (Terry) Huwe and Monica (John) Clark and loved her many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her 1st husband David Gonyo, parents Clifford and Margaret Huwe, 1st in-laws Eugene and Esther Gonyo and 2nd in-laws Leo and Aini Kataja. She graduated from cosmetology school at age 20 and continued as a hairstylist for over 40 years. She was also a paraprofessional for almost 22 years with the Waukegan School District. She dedicated herself to the students she worked with and cared for their needs beyond the schools walls. Marcy was first and foremost dedicated to her 3 daughters and cherished spending time with them and her 5 grandchildren that she doted over. Extended family gatherings were always special to her when she could spend time with her 3 siblings and her nieces and nephews. Whenever the church doors were open, Marcy was there to participate, volunteer and greet visitors and newcomers so they felt welcomed and a part of the church family. Marcy was a people person and never met a stranger wherever she would go. She would share the love of Jesus with anyone whenever she had the opportunity. She enjoyed gatherings with people and loved to take people into her home and treated them like family. In recent years, she became a women’s bible study leader. She grew and flourished and was passionate about what she learned and couldn’t wait to share the knowledge with others. She was an encourager, a prayer warrior and a great friend. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends and so many people who’s lives she impacted. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at Journey Church, 10700 75th Street, Kenosha, WI. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park, Zion, IL.