Cathy Ann Clarke, 61, of Hudson, IA, died on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center after a long battle with cancer.

She was born on February 23, 1959 in Vinton, IA, daughter of Vernon and Wilma Nielsen Parizek. She graduated from North Tama High School in 1977 and later from Pitze’s Beauty School.

Cathy worked as a hairstylist at JC Penney for 36 years and then at Hudson Hair Design and Beauty Mark Salon and Retail in Hudson. She married Gordy Clarke May 15, 1982 at the Community Church in Hudson.

Cathy’s twin grandbabies were her everything. She loved spending time with them and spoiling them with her love. She enjoyed their visits and watching them run around playing with each other. Cathy was an avid golfer. Gordy and herself spent many years playing golf at Oakleaf Country Club in Reinbeck. Most Tuesdays, you could find her on the course playing round after round with her twin sister, Christy, seeing who would beat who that day. Cathy was also a vital supporter of the Hudson Volunteer Fire Department. Although not a firefighter or EMT, she was a true member of the department. From cooking the sausage gravy and biscuits every breakfast to making sure the station was decorated for Christmas time; she made sure everything was always in order. She was the “fire station mom” to so many. Cathy was an honorary member of the AMVETS Auxiliary. She spent many hours bartending and helping with events held at the AMVETS Hall, including organizing Pepper Night. She had a heart of gold and always thought of others before herself. When others asked for help, she never hesitated to jump in and help them. She was always one to do anything for anyone. Cathy will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Cathy is survived by her husband, Gordy, daughter, Tina (Nick) Petersen’ and grandchildren, Brielle and Cael Petersen, all of Hudson; her parents, Vernon and Wilma Parizek and brother, Randy (Lesa) Parizek’ all Elberon; sister, Rachel (Jan) Dray of Cedar Falls; her twin sister, Christy Lichty of Waterloo; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by a sister, Rita King and a brother-in-law, Tom Lichty.