Caterina A. Ghamo

Caterina A. Ghamo, lovingly known as Cathy, peacefully passed away at the age of 53 with her family by her side. Born to Maria (Parafati) and Salvatore Ghamo on August 1, 1973, in New Britain, CT, Cathy grew up surrounded by love, community, and opportunity. Cathy had Down syndrome, a condition that presented challenges throughout her life but never dimmed her light. She thrived in New Britain’s special education program, forming friendships and bonds that endured for years to come. Cathy’s life was defined by joy, resilience, and her family’s unwavering devotion to her.

Throughout her life, Cathy enjoyed many wonderful accomplishments and experiences that brought her tremendous pride and happiness. Cathy was a proud Special Olympian. She was an exceptional swimmer who competed in multiple events and earned numerous medals. Carrying the Olympic torch was one of Cathy’s greatest achievements, a moment that perfectly captured her spirit. On that day, Cathy radiated pride, excitement, and pure happiness, bringing the same enthusiasm and love she brought to everyone she encountered.

Cathy delighted in making connections with new people, and she relished the opportunity to be part of something bigger than herself. Sometimes getting involved simply meant having dinner with her loving family, and other times it meant participating in sports and fun activities with her friends. Either way, Cathy thoroughly enjoyed the time she spent with others.

Cathy absolutely cherished music. Seeing her with her headphones and her stack of CDs brought her family tremendous joy. Dancing to her favorite songs gave Cathy the ultimate happiness, while simultaneously inspiring everyone else to join her on the dance floor. Her love of music was infectious, and these moments remain among her family’s most treasured memories.

In 2007, after a serious illness required a tracheostomy, Cathy transitioned to long-term care at the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain. Her family made this difficult decision with hope and love, wanting Cathy to receive the care and support she needed. For nearly two decades, the hospital became her residence, while her family remained a constant source of love, companionship, and support. Alongside them was Doreen Quattro Naiss, who became like a sister to Cathy and remained a loving presence by her side.

In the final months of her life, Cathy endured significant medical complications. Though her final chapter was marked by difficult circumstances, Cathy’s life was never defined by tragedy. She was defined by her sweetness, her humongous smile, her humor, her Southern Italian stubbornness, her love of music and family, and her ability to make even the hardest days brighter. She loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Cathy was predeceased by her father, Salvatore Ghamo. She is survived by her devoted mother, Maria (Parafati) Ghamo; her sister, Isabella Ghamo and her husband, Salvatore Daniele, of La Spezia, Italy; her brother, Joe Ghamo and his wife, Allison, of West Hartford; and her brother, Tony Ghamo and his wife, Ileana, of West Hartford. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Max, Sal, Joey, Michael, Sam, and Lana Ghamo, all of West Hartford; Francesco Daniele and his family of Bristol; Pietro Daniele and his family of Italy; Maria Daniele and her family of Italy; and Andrea Daniele of Italy; in addition, she leaves behind a great number of aunts, uncles, cousins (Crispo, Ghamo, Parafati, De Giorgio) and countless friends here and in Europe.

Cathy’s family remained deeply devoted to her dignity, happiness, and comfort. Their love carried her through every stage of her life, ensuring that her story will be remembered not only for the challenges she faced, but for the beautiful, joyful, and irreplaceable person she was.

Cathy’s family honors her memory by celebrating the beauty and significance of her life, the happiness she brought to others, and the love she gave so freely. Her wonderful legacy continues in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services for Cathy will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, with calling hours from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 South Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051. Following visitation, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 AM at St. Ann Church, 101 North Street, New Britain, CT 06051 with entombment to follow at St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain.

May her soul rest in God’s eternal peace.