Catherine Mae Couto, 61, of New Bedford died unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. She was predeceased by her partner of 18 years, Michael Sylvia, and her former husband Stewart Baumgardner.

Catherine was an area resident all of her life and went to local schools. She went on to be one of the first female members of Boston Local 40 Carpenters Union, and until her disability worked on many major constructions, including the Big Dig in Boston, and the construction of Sea Lab and the new sanitation station in the South End of New Bedford.

Among the many people missing Cathy are her mother, Anne Marie Couto, and her husband, Raymond DeCosta, of Acushnet; her father Stephen Manuel Couto, and his wife Elaine, of Lakeville; and her brother Stephen James Couto of Peabody. Cathy was blessed with two beautiful daughters who she cherished and their children who she wanted the very best for: Ashley Ann Baumgardner, and her son Jason, of Florida; and Tabitha Lee Pires and her husband Joel of New Bedford, and their adorable daughters, Jaelynn, and Raegan Rose.

She loved her family more than anything, and cherished her time with them. Some of her happiest times were working in her mom's garden, coloring, and playing with her two fur babies, Midnight and Mittens. Her joyful smile and infectious laugh will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.