Catherine "Cathy" Harden Sias

Catherine Ann "Cathy" Harden Sias, 70, of Bellaire, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. She was born on May 10, 1954, in Saginaw, MI, the daughter of Richard and Mary Lou Harden.

Cathy graduated from high school in Saginaw, earned her bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University and went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Michigan. Cathy’s passion in life was educating the future generations of youth at Mancelona Public Schools. She worked tirelessly as an educator in the classroom, specializing in media at the school’s library. Cathy also wrote many grants for the school and other groups in the area over the years – all of which were approved. She was the head of the National Honor Society for many years as well.

In retirement, Cathy continued to give back to the community of Mancelona and the surrounding communities; she served on the Mancelona School Board for 10 years, served on the Alden Library board for 10 years, and was on the board for the White Pine Stampede for many years. When she wasn’t volunteering her time, Cathy enjoyed golfing with her girlfriends, and traveling with her husband, Ivan, particularly wintering in Islamorada, Florida.

Cathy was a friend to many people, and the best friend you could possibly ask for. She cared about everybody and was a great hostess at her home on many occasions. She showed great devotion to the care and welfare of animals, rescuing and taking many dogs and cats into her own home and finding homes for numerous others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In 1991, Cathy married her beloved husband, Ivan Sias, who survives. Also surviving are her stepdaughter, Julie (Jack) Hoag, several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Bill Harden; and her sister, Debbie Sheldon.

A time for memory sharing will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Visitation will take place from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mancelona Public Schools, the Alden Library, or AC Paw.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com