Obituary of Clara Harris

Clara Ruth Marguerite Coolidge was born to Eugene & Ellen Coolidge in Demorestville, Ontario, on December 27, 1920, the youngest of 5 children. Eugene and the eldest son, Harold, came west in the fall of 1920 on a harvest excursion and liked the area so well that he decided to move here. The whole family came by train, with their livestock and household goods in July 1921. They lived in the Golden Valley area southwest of Lloydminster during harvest, and then bought a farm in the Landrose District, and moved there in December of 1921. Clara was a member of the Lashburn Kinettes, the Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Marshall Branch, in which she was recently awarded a life membership. She was also very active in the Northern Circle W.I., and instrumental in organizing and developing the Lashburn Centennial Museum. She was also awarded a life membership in the Museum. She travelled extensively all over Canada, attending W.I. Conventions and to England for the "Women of the World Conference". Clara also taught many music students over the years. Though she had not had the opportunity to learn to play, she could read music and started many area young people on their way. Clara was always active in her local community activities. She and Mac were involved with other long-time residents in rejuvenating the Burke Social Committee, maintaining the school house, organizing activities and keeping community alive and well. A member of the Lloydminster Geneological Society, Clara was always very interested in histories of her own and local families. She was a 4-H leader in Marshall School for several years, teaching cooking, sewing and knitting. As many recipients know, Clara was an avid gardener, and grew many house plants, which she delighted in giving to other people. This practice continued when she moved into the Dr. Hemstock Residence in September of 2009. Clara enjoyed the company of many friends there until shortly before her passing. Clara will be lovingly remembered as Mum, Grandma and Great Grandma by: Ellen & Niels Bonde; Brett & Becky Bonde (Mahri, Kaerli & Erika); Michael & Hien Bonde (Maxx & Isis); Carla & Vivek Sarin (Franklin); Chris Bonde & Jessica; Norma Lynn & Ken Kenefick; Sean Kenefick (Carley & Carson); David & Jenn Kenefick (Aiden); Kendra Kenefick & Kevin; and also as Auntie Clara to a large extended family. The family of Clara Harris would like to thank Dr. Kerlis and the nursing staff at the Lloydminster Hospital for their care during her hospital stay; Reverend Lorna Brick, Lorna Chappell, Leona Beamish, the St. James United Church Ladies for the service; McCaws for their invaluable advice and assistance, and friends and neighbors for their help and support. Interment was at Lashburn Cemetery, McCaw Funeral Service Ltd. Of Lloydminster, AB administered the funeral arrangements. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Lashburn Centennial Museum or to a charity of choice.