In January, the Chicago real estate community was shaken by the heartbreaking news of the passing of Catherine Holbrook-Healy. A devoted REALTOR®, cherished friend and passionate volunteer with the Chicago Association of REALTORS®, Catherine passed away during childbirth, leaving behind her husband Patrick, their newborn daughter Olivia, and countless friends, colleagues and admirers.
Catherine’s radiant energy, commitment to her work and deep care for those around her left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was not just a member of our association—she was a connector, a leader, a friend. Her joy was infectious, her presence unforgettable and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
What We Do Has Heart
Catherine was a longtime volunteer and proud member of our Young Professionals Network (YPN) Advisory Board and Sales Awards Advisory Group. Through her involvement, she built lasting friendships and found a strong sense of community and support among her peers.
As an Association, we take pride in the commitment and drive of our membership. Every initiative is driven by volunteers with the shared understanding that we are stronger together; we can make a bigger and better impact on our communities, and we can uplift the real estate profession with intention and passion.
Catherine’s light embodies a legacy that motivates what we do and reminds us of a simple truth—this is what our work is all about. We are in the business of supporting people, and we will continue to serve our people and our communities.
Catherine’s Impact
Volunteer leaders like Catherine embody the very heart of our association: building meaningful connections, fostering a sense of belonging and lifting each other up. Below, we share the words of fellow REALTORS® whose lives were touched by Catherine’s light, warmth and friendship.
“Catherine’s warm and bubbly personality lit up every room she entered… Catherine always greeted me with genuine warmth, giving me a heartfelt hug no matter the occasion. Genuine and authentic, that’s how I would describe her. She was all about good vibes, and she shared them with everyone around her. Catherine often told me how much she admired me for raising my two daughters, and how one day she dreamed of being an amazing mom herself. There’s no doubt in my mind that she would have gone above and beyond for her baby girl, Olivia.” ~ LETICIA ANDRADE, Fulton Grace Realty
“Anytime she scheduled a showing, I would look forward to catching up and having a few good-natured laughs. It was always a bright spot during the day to see her smile and hear her great laugh. Catherine will be dearly missed and always remembered.” ~ CHUCK GULLETT, Best Chicago Properties
“Catherine was a woman of high moral character with a steadfast commitment to her clients, her community and her family. In an industry of 24/7 demand, she exemplified the power of strength and softness. She was bright, hilarious, dedicated and about to embark on her greatest journey yet, motherhood.” ~ ERIN MANDEL, @properties | Christie’s International Real Estate
“She was the person you hoped would be at the party, the one you wanted to arrive with or at least run into on your way in. Catherine brought people together. There is an immense void in the Chicagoland community—real estate and beyond—without her.” ~ JULIA LINDQUIST, COMPASS
“As a fellow leader at the association, Catherine was incredibly giving and dedicated to raising the bar for our industry. She elevated everyone around her and did it with the biggest smile. The world needs more Catherine Holbrooks—and it is a little less fun without her.” ~ CHRIS PEZZA, Corcoran Urban Real Estate
“Whether it was an important real estate event or just her saying ‘Hiiiiiiii Snaappppchat’ before every video she sent, Catherine brightened everyone’s day. She was an incredibly rare soul, and we will all miss her so much.” ~ MO DADKHAH, Main Street Real Estate Group
“Catherine was the first person I hired for my team. I was nervous about expanding into a team, but she immediately put me at ease about my choice… She was the most loyal person I knew and the biggest cheerleader in my career.” ~ MATT LARICY, Americorp Ltd.
“We called ourselves the MoStos Girlpack, a play on our friends’ names and their ‘girlpack.’ We celebrated life’s milestones and comforted each other during hard times. Catherine was the glue, laughter and joy that held us together.” ~ MO DADKHAH, MICHAELA GORDON, NICK NASTOS & LINDSEY SOUTHWICK
“You could tell she was a social butterfly. Catherine was the key person on our board when it came to planning, volunteering and brainstorming. Even years later, she always made it a point to say hi—with a hug and a wide smile, of course.” ~ ANDY OGORZALY, EXIT Strategy Realty
“Catherine made every single person feel welcomed. From packing events to her good-natured competitiveness at our kickball tournament, she was always the life of the party and the light of the room. I will forever hold her legacy, love and friendship in my heart.” ~ RACHEL SCHEID, @properties | Christie’s International Real Estate
“I remember our first Boys and Girls Club event—it was a hot day, we were exhausted, but Catherine kept smiling to make sure the kids had a special experience. That was her spirit: giving, joyful, unstoppable.” ~ ERIKA VILLEGAS, RE/MAX in the Village
Catherine’s legacy is one of connection, compassion, and unwavering positivity. She made the world brighter simply by being in it—and though her time was far too short, her impact on our industry and community will be felt for years to come. To Olivia: Your mother was deeply loved, widely admired, and truly extraordinary. We will make sure you always know just how bright her light shone. Rest in peace, Catherine. You are profoundly missed and forever remembered.