Jacqueline I. Catello

Jackie I. Catello 76 of Berlin, NH passed away on Nov. 28, 2023 after a very rapid onset of illness. She was born in Berlin, NH on Aug. 2, 1947, the daughter of Robert and Germaine Dupuis. Jackie was educated in Berlin schools and graduated from Notre Dame High School as class valedictorian in 1965. Jackie went to Rivier college for two years and ultimately received her Bachelor’s degree from UNH College of Lifelong Learning. She worked for over 40 years at the White Mountains Community College in Berlin. She was Business Administrator for 20 years, then Financial Aid Administrator for more than 20 years after that. She spoke at financial aid high school nights for 17 years at various schools in Northern NH. She belonged to the National, Eastern, and NH Associations of School Financial Aid Administrators. She helped many students throughout her career.

Jackie married Robert Catello in 1968, the son of well-known local musician Louie Catello and wife Arlene. She joined the Catello family band in which she played keyboard. The band was at one time the house band at the Town and Country Motor Inn.

Jackie loved to celebrate life and entertain others. She was a very special friend and confidante to many. Everyone could talk to Jackie, as they knew she would never judge anyone, and loved everyone just as they came to her. She was a gourmet cook and often prepared meals for her friends at home. Every holiday, every gathering, was a great celebration perfectly orchestrated by her intricate detail to making it special for everyone. Jackie enjoyed downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, boating, and time at the family cottage at Cedar Pond, and with friends at nearby Nay Pond.

After retirement, she enjoyed reading, going to karaoke, gardening, walking, working out, travel, and winters in Florida. She loved the sun, chatting in the pool, and hosting many gatherings at the home where she stayed in Florida. She experimented with ethnic cuisines and loved salmon sushi. She especially loved baklava prepared by her son Travis. She was a very deep thinker, and engaged in many intellectual and spiritual conversations with her son, especially after the passing of her husband Robert.

Members of the family include: her son Travis, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Janet and Brett Halvorson, and many cousins. She was predeceased by her parents and husband, Robert Catello, and his parents. Many, many friends here in Berlin and in Florida were considered all part of her extended family.

At her request, there will be no services or calling hours. Many friends had the opportunity to connect with her as she was on her journey and her son was with her at the final hour. Memories, pictures, and stories are already being shared on Facebook, as Jackie was quite adept at and present on social media. A celebration of life will be scheduled by family at a later date. Mom loved to help others as she felt moved to do so. She always did so many things and gave so much directly to help others, or something just to make them smile. She never wanted others to do anything for her. Giving gifts was a huge source of her joy! In memory of her charitable spirit, those who wish may make a donation to a charity of choice.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Bryant Funeral Homes, Berlin and Gorham, NH.