Catherine Helen Semple (Schmidt) was born on November 3, 1943 in Madison, Wisconsin, to George and Lucille Schmidt, the oldest of 3 children. She died peacefully on April 7, 2023 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, with her family at her side.

Catherine's mother was a schoolteacher, and her father was a mathematician, and education was an important part of the family life. After high school, Catherine attended the University of Colorado (Boulder), a rarity for women at that time.

In 1965, Catherine ventured to the Alaskan wilderness, taking a job as a secretary at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage. There, she met her future husband, Richard Semple, then a Major in the Air Force. Catherine and Richard were married on April 23, 1966.

Living the Air Force life, Catherine moved with her husband and growing family to bases in Arkansas, Delaware, Texas, Alaska, Colorado, Ohio, and finally ending their journey in Spokane, WA with their 4 children.

Catherine was a lifelong devout Catholic, guiding her life and her family with her faith in Jesus Christ. Catherine was also a passionate crafter, developing considerable skill in knitting, tatting, sewing, calligraphy, woodworking, and quilting.  Catherine was very active in the Spokane crafting community, and built many friendships in those groups. She also enjoyed activities with book club, card club, and Catholic Daughters.

Catherine was pre-deceased by her mother and father, and by her husband Lt. Col. Richard Semple (ret.). She is survived by her brother Bill Schmidt of Colorado Springs, her sister Doreen Schmidt of Colorado Springs, and by her four children: Danielle (Ron) Basta of Milford New Hampshire, Fr. Richard Semple of Spokane, WA, Michelle (Kyle) Orendorff of Rockton, IL, and John Semple of Reston, VA. Catherine is also survived by her 6 grandchildren – Kirtis, Kaden, Calvin, Meredith, Lauren, and Reagan.