Catalina Annette Short, born on March 3, 2005, at Los Gatos Community Hospital, peacefully joined her Grandma Barbara, Auntie April, and cousin Sarah on December 29, 2024. Though her time with us was brief, her impact on our hearts and lives was profound.

In the days since her passing, we've been reminded of the countless lives she touched. Catalina was a passionate, high-energy, entertaining, creative, independent, and free-spirited young woman with a keen sense of humor. Her love for music shone through her beautiful ukulele performances, which she shared at school talent shows, local cafes, and even as a participant in America's Got Talent! auditions. She also had a talent for singing, composing music, and writing lyrics. Her entrepreneurial spirit was evident in ventures like the Ramen Shop she ran from her locker at Prospect High and her Depop Shop selling "vintage" fashions. Catalina was unapologetically herself and inspired her friends to do the same. One of her dear friends from her Girl Scout troop captured this beautifully: "She was always her authentic self, which made me feel like I could do the same."

Catalina's vibrant and inclusive spirit left an indelible mark on a wide community of people who loved and adored her. A naturally curious and adventurous soul, she embraced life fully and invited her friends to join her explorations. Her journey was lovingly supported by communities including Las Madres, Village Preschool, Country Lane Elementary, Girl Scouts, Sacred Heart Church and School, Prospect High, Mitty High School, the University of New Mexico, and Brookside Swim and Tennis Club.

Catalina is survived by her loving parents, Brian and Cathie (Watson) Short; her cherished sisters, Celeste and Noel; her maternal grandparents, Charley and Joan Watson and her God Parents Alan Watson and April Wallace. She will also be deeply missed by her seven aunts, four uncles, 23 cousins, a large extended family and all of her friends.  We will especially miss her each year during our family trip to Catalina Island, for which she was named.

A Celebration of Life to honor Catalina will be held on January 11 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 13716 Saratoga Avenue, Saratoga. A reception will follow at Brookside Club of Saratoga, 19127 Cox Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070.

In lieu of flowers, the Short family invites you to consider supporting one or both of the following:

Catalina Short Memorial Scholarship for Artistic Achievement In Catalina's honor, Sacred Heart School has instituted an annual scholarship to be awarded to a graduating student who exemplifies Catalina's spirit and love of artistic expression through their work and who use that skill to inspire the artistic endeavors of others. Donation: Checks payable to Sacred Heart School, and add "Catalina Short Scholarship" in the notes section.

Grace Fisher Foundation "Inclusive Arts Clubhouse": To honor Catalina's creativity, please support this foundation that is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities through the arts.  Donation: https://www.gracesherfoundation.org Write: "In honor of Catalina Short" in the text box.