Obituary of Clara Shipton

Clara Shipton Clara, born on December 25, 1920 was the fifth child of John and Emilia Schnell. Clara was predeceased by her parents and her brothers Herbert, Emanuel, Henry, and Conrad. She is survived by her sister Hanna Lane and sisters-in-law Dorothy Schnell of Castor, Katherine Schnell of Lacombe and brother Harold Schnell of Morningside. She is also survived by her children Carol Shipton of Red Deer, Leslie[Wendy MacNeill] of Beaumont Ann Michielsen [Robert Hill] of Castor, and three grandchildren Christel Shipton Travis Michelsen (Melissa Belanger) and Amber Michielsen (Mike Babin). Clara was raised on the family farm in the Beaver district north east of Castor and attended Meadowview School where she could attend grades one to eight or one to nine, depending on the enrolment in the earlier grades. Much to Clara’s disappointment the school only offered grade eight that year and she was unable to continue. In 1937, with grown sons wanting to take over the family farm Clara’s dad purchased a blacksmith and machine shop in Castor and the family moved to town. Clara was seventeen at this time and became employed at Our Lady of The Rosary Hospital in Castor. Working at the hospital with the nuns and patients gave her great enjoyment and she had many interesting stories to relate. While residing in Extended Care we came to realize how important this part of her life was as the site of the old hospital appeared to invoke a sense of peace and belonging. During this time she met George Shipton at a dance .George had accepted a dare from a friend to approach Clara and offer her a dance and a ride home. He was surprised she accepted the dance as Clara was raised in a family that didn’t dance. This dance led to more dates and in July 16, 1944 they were married. In November 1974, George, her husband of thirty years, passed away. Later in life, Clara again she took up employment at Our Lady of the Rosary Hospital in housekeeping until retirement. She also spent many hours crocheting, knitting and playing cards with neighbours and friends. Spending time and playing games with her grandchildren gave her immeasurable joy. Cooking and baking was a big part of her life and she was happy if anyone “popped in” unexpectedly as it gave her an excuse to feed them. When looking after her house and yard became too difficult she moved into Paintearth Lodge. There she had the good fortune of meeting two special friends. She spent many enjoyable hours driving the country side and recalling old memories with Alfred Ries. Playing cards with Kenny Rumbough gave her many pleasurable hours. In her 91 years Clara lived a full and productive life. All of us, whose life was touched by her, will miss her greatly. Rest in Peace, Clara. Funeral Service Tuesday November 6, 2012 2:00 P.M. Knox United Church Castor, Alberta Memorial Donations to Paintearth Lodge or a charity of your own choice. Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium 403-882-3141