A brilliantly shining light went out from our world on February 3, 2017. Amanda Catano Dorais was respected and loved for her courage, strength, good cheer, wit, and unwavering friendship. She relished the outdoors and was, among other things, a missionary in the Philippines, BYU graduate, at-risk youth instructor, and elementary school teacher.
Amanda fulfilled her greatest teaching assignment over the past five years as she taught us to live more fully and abundantly. While she didn't win her battle against cancer in the physical sense, she vanquished the fear, depression, and hopelessness it often brings. Amanda decided to seize life completely by getting married despite a terminal diagnosis. She continued to beautify relationships with friends and family even while the disease gradually took its toll. All who had the privilege of knowing her are better for the experience and stand in absolute awe of this powerful, inspirational woman. One can better appreciate Amanda's story from this 12-minute, award-winning documentary. vimeo.com/129460628
Amanda is survived by her husband Jason Dorais, mother Debby Catano, father Jim Catano, siblings Cristina Zeman, Alisa Frost, Naomi Mohr and Aaron Catano, and by her 4-legged constant companion Hannah. She became a fit-right-in member of the Mike and Ann Dorais family and was a favorite aunt and willing sitter to 16 nieces and nephews. Amanda was cherished by more friends than can easily be counted. Special thanks go to those who provided extraordinary support during her illness.
A memorial service will be held at the Brighton LDS Chapel, 8171 S. Brighton Loop Rd, Brighton, UT on Friday, February 10 at 11 a.m. The 972 UTA bus (which makes a convenient stop at the large parking lot at 6200 S. Wasatch Blvd.) is an option if snowy conditions require mounted chains or all-wheel drive in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Amanda Catano Memorial Fund. All proceeds will be passed along to others fighting cancer.https://www.gofundme.com/amanda-catano-memorial-fund
