NORWICH – Catherine Rumsey, 88, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2009 in Houston, Texas. 
 Born June 17, 1921 in Norwic, Catherine was the daughter of John and Caterina (Sinagra) Merlino. She graduated from Norwich High School and then received her Registered Nursing Degree in New York City while living in Baldwin, Long Island. While working on Long Island, she met and married Arthur Gleitz, who passed away in 1966. When she was working as a nurse, Catherine lost her sight. She then became involved with Guiding Eyes for the Blind and at the same time worked for over 20 years for the Internal Revenue Service. 
 On November 26, 1988, Catherine married Edwin Rumsey of Houston, who survives. She is also survived by her brother, John S. Merlino and his wife, Shirley, of South Carolina and nieces and nephews, Martin and Kathy Merlino of South Carolina, John J. and Donna Merlino of Smyrna, Cathy and Clarence Sharpe of North Carolina and John and Linda Panaro of Norwich. Several cousins also survive including Amelia and Joseph Caputo of Norwich. Catherine was predeceased by two sisters, Frances DePierro and Mary Panaro.
 Memorial services for Catherine will be held at a later date in Houston, Texas.
 Contributions in memory of Catherine may be made to: Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY  10598. 
 Local arrangements are by the Wilson Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the funeral home website at:  www.wilsonfh.com.