Catherine Denise Zelenka Holcomb

Catherine Denise Zelenka Holcomb, 63, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 17, 2026, with her two daughters by her side.

Cathy was born on October 14, 1962, in Akron, Ohio, to Roseann Mallardi/Shirley and David J. Zelenka.

Cathy grew up in Fairlawn, Ohio, and graduated from Copley High School in 1981. Growing up, she enjoyed dancing at the JCC, singing in choirs and ensembles, listening to music, spending time with her dear friends MaryAnn Raney and Lisa Brown, and being surrounded by her many cousins and family members at gatherings.

Cathy met and fell in love with Marty in 1982, and together they had two daughters, Tiffany Christina Rose (Thomas) Rice and Victoria Catherine Rose Holcomb. Cathy loved her girls more than anything in the world. She will always be remembered as a loving and caring woman, not only to her own family, but to the many other families whose lives she became a part of over the years.

Cathy was a beloved nurse, and graduated from the University of Akron. She found her true passion as a labor and delivery nurse at Akron General, where she spent her career helping families welcome new life into the world. Over her 30-year career, Cathy had the special privilege of helping deliver the children of many family members and friends, something she was always incredibly proud to be a part of. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, as well as the countless families whose lives she touched throughout her nursing career.

Cathy will be remembered for her fierce love, kindness, strength, intelligence, and of course, her practice of do no harm but take no sh** type of stubbornness. She was steadfast in the way she loved and cared for the people around her. She was a warrior.

Cathy was preceded in death by her father, David J. Zelenka, as well as many other loved ones and beloved puppies over the years. She is survived by her husband, George Martin "Marty" Holcomb; her daughters, Tiffany (Thomas) Rice and Victoria "Rosie" Holcomb; her mother, Roseann Mallardi/Shirley; her sisters, Julia Citerin and Deirdre Zelenka; her brother, Ryan Zelenka; and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Special thanks to the at home and on site Hospice team at Cleveland Clinic/Akron General for giving her the level of care that she gave.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life honoring Cathy's loving spirit at Chestnut Lodge at Sand Run Metro Park, 1501 Sand Run Parkway, Akron, Ohio 44313, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, October 21, 2026.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)