Michael Catalano

Michael Martin Catalano “Mr. Cat” March 27, 1935-December 25, 2022

Michael Catalano of Bellevue passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children on Christmas morning at St. Thomas Midtown in Nashville. He was 87.

Son of Casper and Concetta (Uso) Catalano, Michael was born in Throop, PA and grew up in Scranton. He earned his bachelor’s degree in music from Mansfield State College and Peabody University. During the Korean War Michael enlisted in the army and was a proud member of the 101st Airborne Marching Band. After the army he settled in Nashville where he raised his family. Music was always at the center of his life. At the early age of 15 he started preforming with his brothers, Cataldo and Nicholas. He was one of the founding members of The Chessman, a local cover band. The Chessmen played regularly at the Starlite Club, Moose Lodges, VFWs, American Legions, and other events. Even after his retirement the band continues to play on. For nearly 30 years he was a band director at several schools in Nashville, including North High School, W.A. Bass, McKissiack, and Pearl Cohn. He was a dedicated band director who inspired many young musicians. No matter where he went someone would always affectionately greet him with “Hey Mr. Cat!” He was proud to remain in contact with many of his former students.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his brother, Nicholas (Candace) of Arizona, his sister Ann Marie Gastinger; his children Judith (Don) Hayes, Michael Lee Catalano, Constance Catalano, and Colette (Todd) Williams; his grandchildren Rachel (Eric) Buterbaugh, Rebecca (Curt) Terrell, Robyn (Josh) Hogan; Nicole Catalano, Kelly Johnson, Concetta Catalano, Kaitlyn (Matt) Pope, Martina (Arturo) Leal, and Cody (Amanda) Williams; and 16 great grandchildren.

 Visitation will be December 30,2022 from 10am to 12pm with funeral service at 12pm. Please join us for a luncheon and celebration of life to follow.

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