Catherine H. Van Sickler
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Kitty Van Sickler
Catherine H. Van Sickler (Kitty) passed peacefully April 16, 2021 at her daughter and son-in-law's home in Wilton Manors where she had been residing. They and her granddaughter were by her side.
Kitty was born in Washington DC March 30,1927, the daughter of Dr. Robert R. Hottel and Hazel Atkins. She spent the school months in DC and summers in Virginia. She graduated from McKinley High School in DC and obtained a Bachelors and a Masters degree from the University of Maryland. In 1950 she married John Garrett Van Sickler (Jack). Kitty owned and operated a dancing studio in Washington for 12 years and taught first grade in Virginia and Florida. Kitty and Jack moved permanently to Fort Lauderdale in 1967. They bought a condo on the Intracoastal in 1972 where they enjoyed good times and good neighbors. Kitty continued teaching first grade on and off when it wasn't interfering with their travel. Traveling, especially on ships was a passion and they were blessed to have many wonderful trips, including two world cruises.
Kitty loved people and all who knew her reciprocated. She had a kind and giving soul and carried it with great dignity. She and Jack enjoyed going out for happyhour, and consequently developed friendships allover Fort Lauderdale. Kitty loved riding around in her 1942 Packard and attending car shows, especially when they were held at her favorite establishments, like the Downtowner and Sly Fox. She volunteered for many years at the food pantry and homeless feeding program of Christ Church, Fort Lauderdale.
Kitty is preceded in death by her husband Jack, a sister and a brother. She is survived by her daughter Anne Garrett, son-in-law Peter, granddaughter Catherine and her great granddaughter Chelsea. Also her beloved cat Smokey.
Kitty will be interred after a graveside service at Ebenezer Cemetery in Bluemont, Virginia May 8 at 1pm. There will be a celebration of life in Fort Lauderdale later this summer. Kitty loved animals and people. In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.