She was an inspirational fixture at Fontbonne for nearly four decades; educating and guiding hundreds of young women at the high school. So when Susan Katchpole lost her hard-fought battle with cancer earlier this year, one former student knew she had to do something special to celebrate her purposeful life. “I came up with the idea because I wanted to honor Sue Katchpole in a way that was meaningful for both her friends and family, but also the Fontbonne community,” said organizer and 2016 Fontbonne alumnae Colleen Tuite.
Katchpole worked at Fontbonne for 38 years. She started as a coach and taught Health and Physical Education. She later earned her Nursing degree and became the School Nurse while continuing to teach and coach. Katchpole loved golf and spent her summers working at a local course. It only made sense to bring those who loved her together there for a charity golf tournament in their beloved friend’s honor. Tuite, who was a member of the Fontbonne golf team, shared the idea with some fellow alumnae and the support was immediate. Katchpole’s partner, Carol Mather was also all in. The women joined forces and hit the ground running.
“A Match For Katch” was held on Saturday, August 24th at the Presidents Golf Course in Quincy. The tournament was sold out with more than 200 people in attendance. The committee secured more than a dozen sponsors for the event and generous donations for a raffle and silent auction. The tournament raised $17,000. That money will benefit Fontbonne Athletics and the MSPCA in Katchpole’s honor.
Fontbonne would like to recognize the Alumnae who worked tirelessly to make this event happen. Special thanks to Colleen Tuite ‘16, Siobhan Senier '16, Katie Nolan '16, Liz Matthews '16, Jackie O'Rourke '17, Lauren Critelli '17, Melissa Folan '17, Patrice Guerard '17, Shannon Connelly ‘17 and Lily Galvin '17.
