KATHERINE CLARKE

Katherine Marie Clarke (nee Gehl): Born June 9, 1924 at Hodgeville, SK. Died December 21, 2007 at University of Alberta Hospital surrounded by her children. Mom made the world a better place. No person of the humblest sort can be strong, gentle and good without the world being better for it. She helped and comforted many by the very existence of that goodness. Katherine will forever be remembered by her children Ron (Judith) Clarke, Stony Plain AB; Marvin (Valda) Clarke, Duncan, BC; Janice (Jim) Armstrong, Rouleau, SK; Allan (Lorraine) Clarke, Midale, SK; Blaine (Janice) Clarke, Nipawin, SK. She was a loving and patient Grandma to 11 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. She is survived by brothers Earl (Lorna) Gehl, Walter (Myrna) Gehl, Bill ( Doris ) Gehl and sisters Irene Nybo, Martha Mleziva and Elsie (Rudolph) Haubrich. She will always live in our hearts as someone who did the useful thing, said the courageous thing and thought the beautiful thing. No one was ever turned from her door and help was never beyond the simplest expression of need. Mom lived by the creed that a person can only be happy in the face of work worth doing…and doing it well. She leaves a legion of friends who she helped and who helped her through declining health. The Clarke family is eternally grateful for their support. Katherine was predeceased by her husband Dick in 2002 after 52 years of marriage, her grandson Scott Clarke in 1992, mother Marie Gehl in 1974, father Peter Gehl in 1990, sister Mary Wiggins and brother Max Gehl in 2007. The family invites family and friends to join us in a memorial service for Katherine on January 12, 2008 in the Avonlea United Church at 1:30 PM. Reverend Marilyn Keerak will officiate. Lunch will follow at the Avonlea Community Hall. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in Katherine’s memory can do so through the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 2360 2nd Ave., Regina, S4R 1A6. In living memory of Katherine, a tree will be planted in Besant Park by W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home.   

Guest Book

Chris Kaiser - Regina, SK: To the Clarke family; I wish to express my sincere condolences to your family with the death of Katherine. When I was stationed at Avonlea and went to your families house Katherine always made me feel welcome. Sitting in the kitchen was a good experience due to the kindness of Katherine. Good people are hard to find so there loss is that much more significant to us. The Clarke family treated me decently and made me feel part of the community. thank you for that.
Chris Kaiser

Garry & Norma Ness - Weyburn, SK: To the family of Katherine Clarke.. It was a shock to read about your Mom.. so sorry for your loss.. Memories are precious. Sincerely Garry and Norma Ness

Mary-Jane Hornoi - Regina, SK: I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mom was a gentle caring person always with a beautiful smile on her face. I have so many fond childhood memories of that same smile greeting all the people that you Dad brought home for supper unexpectedly. She could produce a banquet and entertain at the same time. She will be missed by many people. You have many wonderful memories to hold dear. Mary-Jane

Sterling & Pat Hornoi - Regina, SK: We are so sorry for your loss. A mother is a very special part of a family  and we know you will miss her dearly. Remember all the memories that made her special to your family, they are the legacy that she left you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sterling and Pat Hornoi

Stan & Sheryl Ursu - Kayville, SK: To Kathy's family and friends, we wish to extend our deepest sympathy at this difficult time.  Kathy was always glowing with a beautiful smile and a helping hand.  May God give you strength and peace.

George & Rochelle Colcerin - Regina, SK: To the Clarke & Armstrong Families - We will forever cherish fond memories of the friendship and camaraderie we enjoyed with Katherine & Dick.  They were among the first to welcome us when we moved to Avonlea.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.  Sincere condolences - George & Rochelle Colcerin

Carlene Walter - Saskatoon, SK: To the Clarke Family, Ryan, Carter, and I are thinking of you. Ron and Judith, you are very special to us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Walters

Judy Reed - Moose Jaw, SK: To the Clarke and Armstrong families -- I was very saddened and shocked to find out about your Mother's  death-I knew her for years. She was one of the kindest, understanding, most gentle woman I have ever know. May God bless her and her family.  My family met her and Dick when we lived in Claybank years ago. God bless her and comfort all your families.

Randy & Lorraine Zaiser - Moose Jaw, SK: Our thoughts are with the entire family.  While it is always hard to lose a family member, losing a mother as thoughtful, friendly and caring as Katherine is more difficult.  Lorraine and I hope it has brought your families even more close together and you are all stronger for it.

Ron & Janie Jeffery - Vancouver, BC: We are sorry for your loss. May all your memories be a comfort to you all.

Norbert & Lorraine Dombowsky - Avonlea, SK: To all the Clarke family. We were so sorry to hear of Kathy's death. Kathy was a one-of-kind lady who could help you at a drop of a hat and put the coffee on at any time. She was a great cook, wonderful gardener, a fun golfer and curler. She was a thoughtful friend and we are sorry to have lost her. Our most sincere condolences to all.

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