Catarina Bustos Misfeldt

Weslaco-

Catarina Bustos Misfeldt, 81, passed away on May 5, 2025, at Knapp Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to education. Born on September 11, 1943, in Weslaco, Texas, Catarina grew deep roots in the community she loved—flourishing into a devoted mother, cherished friend, and respected educator.

She began her education at St. Joan of Arc Catholic School. She graduated from Weslaco High School, carrying the values of faith, determination, and a lifelong love of learning. Catarina served as a paraprofessional with Weslaco ISD for many years, quietly sowing the seeds of knowledge in countless young lives. But her journey didn’t stop there.

Following the heartbreaking loss of her teenage son, Catarina found the strength to return to college, earning her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education—a testament to her extraordinary perseverance. She went on to earn certifications in dual language instruction, gifted and talented education, and history, pouring her heart into teaching at Donna ISD.

For Catarina, education was never just a profession; it was her purpose. Her classroom was a place of warmth, inspiration, and growth, reflecting the core of who she was. She touched countless lives with her belief in the transformative power of learning and her deep compassion for her students.

Catarina’s greatest accomplishment, above all else, was being a mother. Her heart overflowed with boundless love for her son, the center of her world. Motherhood was not just a role—it was her deepest joy and profound purpose. Their bond was radiant and unshakable, painting her life in vivid hues of pride, tenderness, and joy. In loving him, Catarina revealed the full depth of her devotion, leaving behind a legacy shaped by the beauty of a mother’s unwavering heart.

Those who knew Catarina were drawn to her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and timeless elegance. She carried herself with grace and an effortless charm that made others feel seen, heard, and genuinely cherished. Her vibrant personality lit up every room she entered, and her joy was as contagious as her smile. A gifted gardener, she lovingly tended to her beloved Easter lilies—delicate blossoms that mirrored her nurturing heart and added beauty to all who passed by. Whether dancing the night away or savoring a quiet evening among friends, Catarina embraced life with open arms. Her love for all things glittery and her fondness for the calming tones of blue reflected a spirit that sparkled with vitality and serenity.

Catarina was also a spirited entrepreneur, driven by creativity, energy, and a zest for turning everyday moments into meaningful ventures. Alongside her sister, “Chaga”, she eagerly embraced opportunities to earn extra income during school breaks, always with laughter and purpose. Their famously timed garage sales became neighborhood highlights, filled with camaraderie, cheerful bargains, and Catarina’s signature sparkle. Perhaps most memorable was her seasonal cascarón stand, where she sold confetti-filled Easter eggs by the dozens from the end of her street. More than just a local tradition, her colorful creations embodied the joy, vibrancy, and festive spirit that defined her life.

Catarina is preceded in death by her parents, Domingo and Dora (Rivera) Bustos, son, Hugho Rene Campos, her husband, Roland Misfeldt, and sisters, Ramona Luna (Alejandro), Santiaga Bustos, and beloved caregiver Rosalinda Gonzales.

She is survived by nieces Melissa Reyes Martinez, Cynthia Reyes Limon, Sandra B. Zavala, Miriam Luna (Deyanira Romero), Mona Harter (David), Martha Luna (Kevin Ayarzagoitia), and Melinda Luna (Linwood E. Howell Jr.); nephews, Marco Antonio Reyes, Alex Luna (Noemi); and caregivers Aracely Gonzalez and Eneida Pruneda.

As we gather to celebrate the life of Catarina Misfeldt, we are reminded of a woman who embodied love, resilience, and passion. Visitation will be held on May 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM at McCaleb Funeral Home, with a Holy Rosary at 7:00 PM. A Mass will be celebrated on May 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, followed by her burial at Highland Memorial Park at 11:00 AM.

Catarina's legacy will forever echo in the hearts of those she touched—an everlasting tribute to a life well-lived, filled with grace, love, and unyielding strength. Her spirit will dance on in our memories, a reminder of the profound beauty of embracing family and pursuing one’s passions.