Erwina H. Carr Breese, of Cato, was called home on August 9, 2023.

Winnie was born in Rochester, raised in Brooklyn, and was an associate editor of a trade magazine for the men's apparel industry. Winnie was predeceased by her loving husband, Harry R. Breese. They married in 1948 and their union lasted more than 71 years, producing five children: Donald Breese; David (Carlyn Patterson) Breese of Derwood, MD; Kathleen (Stewart) MacDowall of Memphis, NY; Allan (Diane) Breese of Queen Creek, AZ; and Bob Breese. She also leaves eight grandchildren, David (Karen) MacDowall, Amy Zalla, Alicia Persaud, Justin (Vannessa) Breese, Lindsay MacDowall, Sierra (Taylor) Breese, Jordan Breese, and Emily Breese; as well as six great-grandchildren.

She was an active member of the Cato Union Church, later Cato Christian Fellowship, singing in the choir for well over 50 years, serving as financial secretary and co-directing the Cato Christian Food Pantry with her husband. For many years, she was known as Cato's poet laureate and a member of the singing Lee Sisters. She and her husband were long time members of the Fair Haven Yacht Club and charter members of the CIViC Heritage Historical Society. She also served on the Cato Village Planning Board and the Board of Directors of the Seven Lakes Girl Scout Council.

Winnie belonged to Sweet Adeline's and Harmony, Inc., singing in the Cayuga Chords Chorus and Humdingers Quartet. The things she liked best were family gatherings, knitting, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, reading and cats.

A Celebration of Life will take place on September 9th at 11:00 at Cato Christian Fellowship. Winnie will be joined with her late husband in a private burial.

Those wishing to remember Winnie may best do so through contributions in her name to any Christian charity of your pleasure.