Clara June Muehlhausen passed gently from this earth, surrounded by family, on March 6, 2019.

She was born in Bloomfield, Ill. on Jun. 28, 1936 to Teddy and Frances Kerley. When Clara was still in grade school, Teddy got a job in the orchards of Alma, Ill. and settled the family there. At 17, Clara was salutatorian of her graduating class. A year later, on a double date, she met a handsome young Marine corporal and soon after became Mrs. Louis Muehlhausen.

Their love affair never dimmed through their 64 years of marriage, including deployments and many moves.

Together they raised two sons and six daughters and had a large role in the lives of their many grand- and great-grandchildren.

Clara devoted her life to her family. She was the constant in a world of change. She was always there. She patched knees, clothes and hearts. Her home and yard were the favorite hangout for neighborhood kids. She always had fresh homemade bread or cookies to share. She was a nurturer and a good listener.

Clara and Louis were known as “Mom and Dad,” “Gramma and Grampa,” to countless neighborhood kids who found acceptance and support in their presence.

Clara’s quiet, gentle nature and warm smile drew people to her. She was a giver — always there to help a friend or neighbor. She never interfered, only somehow helped you figure it out on your own. She enjoyed needlework, especially embroidery. She made many baby quilts and cinnamon rolls (for which she was famous!) for the Montessori school in town. She enjoyed outings, especially mountain berry picking and picnic walks on the beach with family and friends.

Clara endured many surgeries, chronic ailments, and bouts with cancer with never a complaint. She never worried outwardly but trusted in the Lord through whatever life brought. She lived a life of grace and is sorely missed by Louis and their surviving children, Steve (Karla) Muehlhausen, Tami (Bob) Murray, Kathy (Randy) Fagan, Tori Muehlhausen, Geni (Kevin) Riley, Mari Muehlhausen, Kari (Troy) Sanders, their many grandchildren and greats, along with all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by one son, Joel Muehlhausen.

We rejoice in her release from a frail body to draw closer to our Mighty and Loving Savior.

Friends of the family are invited to join us in remembering and celebrating Clara’s life 3 p.m. Saturday, June 29 at the Dugalla Bay Clubhouse in Oak Harbor.