Catherine May Mesaric, 59, died unexpectedly January 18 at her ranch in Troy, Maine. She was born May 28, 1954, in Bridgeport, and was the daughter of the late George James Mesaric and Edith Ballou Lane Mesaric.

Ms Mesaric was raised in Sandy Hook, and still had a very strong connection with the people of both Sandy Hook and Newtown.

She had a very diverse work career, including working at Fairfield Hills Hospital in Newtown; the Kennebec County Sheriff's Office, Corrections Division; Winslow Police Department; Alliance Detective and Security in Augusta, Maine; and as co-owner of Last Chance Ranch Horse Rescue in Troy.

She was best known for her love of family, friends, animals, and anyone in need. Her door was always open to anyone who needed a kind word and a place to stay. Life at “The Ranch” was always full of love, with infamous nights talking and much laughter, sitting around the fire.

She loved to build things, and anyone reading this who knew her will only smile thinking of the many projects Ms Mesaric would start at 4 am.

Her numerous companions that followed her throughout her life include dogs, cats, horses, and, not least of all, Bucky the sheep.

A large loving family survives Ms Mesaric, including children Rachel, and husband Ray, and Josh, and wife Sabrina; three grandchildren; brothers Richard, and partner Carmella, Mark, Michael and Donna, and Larry and Louise; sisters-in-law Linnea, Glenda, and Marlene; and many cousins, friends, nephews, and nieces, including Jennifer and Jack of Sandy Hook.

Her brothers James, John, Joseph, and Billy; a sister in law; and a niece predeceased Ms Mesaric.

Ms Mesaric touched many, many people’s lives, more than can be mentioned. All who knew her will miss her infectious smile and quick sense of humor. She was a mentor to so many who achieved their dreams, because of her determination to challenge them to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. “We love you and always will.”

A memorial service will take place Thursday, January 30, from 3 to 6 pm, at the Winslow VFW on Veteran Drive, Winslow, Maine.

There will also be a memorial service in Sandy Hook, in May.

In lieu of flowers,  memorial donations can be sent to to Double B Horse Rescue, 997 West Mills Road, Industry ME 04938.