The community of Rochester, Michigan, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Catherine “Caty” Gittner, a beloved special education teacher at Hart Middle School and a devoted wife, mother, daughter, and friend. Caty passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., surrounded by the love of her family and closest friends.
In her final act of generosity—one that exemplifies the kind of person she was—Caty made the incredible decision to donate her organs through the Gift of Life program. This selfless act is expected to save at least ten lives and touch up to a hundred more. Even in death, Caty continues to give, to uplift, and to serve others in a way that will resonate far beyond her passing.
Caty Gittner lived her life with incredible purpose. She was passionate, creative, and fiercely determined. Her presence could be felt the moment she walked into a room—vibrant, warm, and full of life.
A tireless advocate for her students, Caty was known throughout the Rochester Community Schools (RCS) district as a champion for all children, especially those who needed a little extra care and encouragement. Her work at Hart Middle School left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and families alike.
In a letter to the RCS community, Superintendent Nicholas A. Russo described Caty as someone whose caring heart touched countless lives. “Mrs. Gittner was a true champion for all children,” he wrote. “Our hearts are broken. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Gittner family, along with the students, friends, families, and colleagues who love her dearly.”
Caty was the wife of Mike Gittner, RCS’s elementary math consultant, and a mother whose deep love for her family was evident in everything she did. She was described by those closest to her as a connector, a problem-solver, a handler, and an over-thinker—always seeking solutions, bringing people together, and caring deeply about everyone in her orbit. Her resilience was unmatched, and her boundless energy inspired those around her.
As the RCS community processes this unthinkable loss, critical incident teams have been activated to help support students and staff. The district is encouraging families to partner with school counselors and utilize resources from the National Association of School Psychologists to help children cope with grief. Additionally, the Rochester Hills Resiliency Center is open for in-person support.
Caty’s legacy is not only in the lessons she taught in the classroom but also in the lives she touched with her kindness, tenacity, and compassion. She exemplified what it means to live for others, to lift those in need, and to give every part of oneself to a cause greater than any one person.
Funeral arrangements will be shared with the public at a later date. In the meantime, the outpouring of love and support from the Rochester community stands as a testament to Caty’s remarkable life. Her memory will continue to live on through her students, her family, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Caty Gittner will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
