Floyd E. Catterton Sr

Floyd Catterton, 85, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2012. He had a full life, filled with love and passion. As a young man, he fought for his Country, as a Boatswain's Mate in the US Navy. Understanding how fortunate he was to be able to return home, he filled his life with his love for family, friends, and by encouraging and supporting children of all ages.
He was born at home on June 24, 1927 in Rock Island, IL to George and Lulu Catterton. The sixth of seven children, he was a scrappy little boy who worked hard to overcome many obstacles. He was ornery and gregarious. He lived through the Depression and fought in WWII, visiting many ports around the world, sharing many stories of those days. His several tattoos, including Betty Boop, were a testament to that time in his life. Those markers identified him both as a Navy man and a Veteran, of which he was so very proud.
Floyd was also honored to be a 60-year member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 25 where he worked as a steamfitter on projects throughout Illinois and Iowa. It's no surprise he would only buy items made in America and refused to go through self-service lanes, because they eliminated jobs. Both of his sons and a grandson, currently an Apprentice, followed suit with careers in the Union. He was very proud of these accomplishments.
After a year of dating, he married Sarah (Sally) (Ledbetter) on March 7, 1953. Married 59 years, she lovingly and devotedly cared for him through his final journey. Together, they had three children, foster parented children and opened their home to multitudes of kids - friends and family were always welcome to stay, and they did. Their hearts were equally large when it came to taking care of and providing for children. Floyd's love for children never left him as he cared for his babies through his final journey.
Survivors include his wife, Sarah, children David Anthony and Bud (Lorie Wells) Catterton, Illinois and Theresa (Charley) Niemeier, Virginia; grandchildren; Ted (Wendy) Mathieu, Laurie (Larry) Matney, Scott and Eric Anthony, Connecticut, Kendra (Kevin) Hackett, Nebraska, and Corey Catterton, Illinois; and seven great grandchildren; along with two boys who he loved as his grandchildren, David (Christina) and Tim Palinscar, and a sister, Marie Meglic, of Spring Hill, Florida. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Charles (Hap), David and George and sisters Margaret (Sissie) and Lillian.
Floyd and the family wishes to extend their thanks and gratitude to the Doctor, Nurses and Caregivers of Hope Creek Care Center - Dementia Unit, for their unfailing care, love, support and friendship over the past year. And, to the family, friends and other patients who so faithfully visited and brought moments of joy to each of his days. In particular, we thank Bob Jamieson, a faithful friend from elementary school who visited nearly weekly and provided much kindness and support to our family, for which Floyd would have been ever so grateful.
A Memorial Service honoring Floyd's life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, September 17, 2012 at Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., 6601 38th Avenue, Moline. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, September 16, 2012 at the funeral home. Following visitation cremation rites will be accorded. Inurnment will be at National Cemetery at Rock Island Arsenal. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Moline Boosters Club, 3600 Avenue of the Cities, Moline, IL, 61265, which will honor Floyds love and commitment to the area youth.
Online condolences may be left for his family at www.esterdahl.com.