Former IHSAA Commissioner dies at 77

When C. Eugene Cato served as Commissioner of the Indiana High School Athletic Association, his "firm, fair and friendly" approach to caring for others defined his legacy. On Monday, Oct. 20, Cato's leadership was remembered as the IHSAA Commissioner's Office mourned the death of an influential role model and friend. Born and raised in southern Indiana, Cato, 77, of Zionsville passed away on Sunday, Oct. 19. "Gene" acted as IHSAA Commissioner from 1983 to 1995. Prior to his appointment, Cato served as the IHSAA Assistant Commissioner, beginning in 1976. Cato graduated from Oakland City College in 1952 and worked as a teacher and coach at Chandler, Boonville and Zionsville High Schools. He later held the titles of principal at Huntingburg High School and superintendent at North Harrison Schools and Jay County School Corp. Cato attended Oakland City High School where he played basketball for his father, Alva F. Cato. He graduated in 1949 and continued his career in basketball at the collegiate level. Gene was married to Lillian Lou Moore on Sept. 2, 1950. Lillian, an elementary teacher for 33 years, shared her husband's passion and enthusiasm to influence student-athletes with an equal emphasis on the "student" and the "athlete." They spent 58 years together teaching, coaching, leading and loving thousands of students and their parents. Gene is survived by his wife, Lillian, his sister, Linda Marshall (husband Jim) of Zionsville and daughters: Cathy Lewis (husband Denny) of Jasper, Beth Fetters (husband Mark) of Carmel and Angie Valentine (husband Jon) of Zionsville. Additionally, Gene was the proud grandfather of six grandsons and two granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Terry Gene Cato. Contributions can be made to the C. Eugene Cato Memorial Scholarship Fund and mailed to: IHSAA, 9150 North Meridian Street, P.O. Box 40650, Indianapolis, IN 46240. The funeral service will be Thursday, Oct. 23, 11 a.m. at Zionsville Fellowship Church. Visitation will be held prior to the service.