Clara Bays

Clara Johan Bays, 94, of St. Joseph died peacefully on Friday November 16, 2007 at Lakeland Continuing Care- St. Joseph. Friends may call from 5:00 – 7:00 Monday at Starks and Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road St. Joseph. She will be buried next to her husband at Riverview Cemetery. Memorials in Clara’s name may be made to St. Joseph-Lincoln Twp Senior Center. Friends wishing to send condolences may do so at the guest book at www.starks-menchinger.com Clara was born on April 11, 1913 to Gustav & Julia (Bish) Johan in Benton Harbor Michigan. Clara was a loving sister to Raymond (Anne), Walter (Bernadine) and Kate (Hinkleman). They have all preceded her in death. On June 17, 1939 Clara married Harry O. Bays and spent a lifetime together traveling and enjoying the company of many fine friends. Harry passed away on September 22, 1994. Clara was a fine homemaker and terrific cook. Her gifts of holiday jams, jellies and monkey bread will be fondly remembered and missed. Together Harry and Clara volunteered at the St. Joseph- Lincoln Senior Center. Clara loved needlework and her talents were shared with the many “students” that learned to knit and crochet from Clara’s lessons. Clara Volunteered tirelessly on the St. Joseph- Lincoln Senior Center Newsletter committee. Those of us fortunate to have some of her handy needlework will cherish our afghans, baby layettes, dish cloths, ornaments and lace. Clara was loved by her nephew and godson Doug (Doreen) Johan. Clara was a Great Aunt to Jessi DuRocher and a Great-great Aunt to Charlie Johan. Clara is survived by two Bish cousins, Pearl (Ralph) Sepp and Don Bish. She will be remembered with love by many nieces and nephews of Harry Bays. Clara’s memory will always warm our Hearts.