Clara Gertrude Bierwagen peacefully passed away on January 21, 2021 at the age of 97 years in the Cascade Lodge. She was born on October 13, 1923 at the family homestead in Fenwood, Saskatchewan to Alvina (nee Fritzke) and Frederick Werk. Clara is survived by her children; Sharon, Loretta (Jeff), Roger (Connie) and Neil (Frank); seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She is predeceased by Edward, her husband of 35 years, and her four brothers and five sisters. Family was always important to her and as the youngest daughter of her family, she enjoyed taking care of her parents, siblings and the many nieces and nephews that lovingly respected “Aunt Clara”.
Clara gave her heart to the Lord at an early age and her strong faith continued throughout her entire life up to her passing. She spoke openly and honestly about her faith and her strong commitment to the Chilliwack Baptist Church where she served on many committees and loved to share her voice in the choir as a Centurion Member.
During her long career at Century Plumbing in Chilliwack, she was always available for her customers and willing to trouble shoot any of their plumbing problems, large or small. This work family became a pivotal part of her life through her retirement after reconnecting with Ed after many years.
Edward had always been her first love when they met at school in Fenwood, Saskatchewan and were reconnected in marriage on April 6, 1985. Every spring until 1997, Clara and Ed would eagerly head back to the prairies to their farm where she easily embraced farm life. As fall approached, she was always ready to go back to Chilliwack; the mountains and the Fraser Valley was truly the place she called home.
Clara loved to garden and had a gift for growing and nurturing the most beautiful flowers and vegetable garden; a gift she enjoyed sharing with family and neighbours alike. She enjoyed travelling in her younger years with trips taken with her nieces to many different countries, and after her marriage to Ed; they as a couple continued to travel with Hawaii being their favorite destination.
Having her children and grandchildren come for a visit was always a highlight that she eagerly awaited as she loved to entertain family and friends with an always amazing meal, eager to play games and no one ever left without coffee and some delicious baking.
Clara’s warmth and love will truly be missed by all that had the opportunity to be a part of her life. If friends so desire, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society in Clara's memory would be appreciated.
