Claudine L. Staublin

Claudine L. Staublin, 86, of Columbus, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at GreenTree at Westwood, surrounded by her family. She was born September 21, 1939, in Greenwood, the only daughter among four children, Claudine grew up with three brothers and quickly learned the art of caring for others. As a young girl she took on a motherly role to her youngest brother when their mother returned to work, an early glimpse of the steady, nurturing presence she would offer throughout her life.

Claudine married Paul Staublin, and together they built a life filled with hard work, devotion, and a shared appreciation for history and craftsmanship. For more than 30 years, Claudine worked for Cummins Engine Company, serving as the secretary to several executives before retiring. Even while balancing a demanding career, she and Paul owned and operated Caritas, their antique shop in Madison, IN where Claudine excelled at researching and identifying each piece. After retirement Claudine volunteered her time with St. Bartholomew Catholic Church and Columbus Regional Hospital. She was also a dedicated blood donor throughout her entire life.

She raised her children with the same energy and attention. Claudine proudly served as a judge at countless Donner Park swimming meets. She supported every ambition her children pursued and later delighted in visiting them after they had scattered across the country. After retirement, she finally embraced her dream to travel, including church trips to Europe and a memorable 80th birthday celebration in San Francisco.

At home she enjoyed her salads with blue cheese, a cup of coffee, and the simple pleasure of working in her garden. Every year she vowed to cut down the grape arbor, but instead she could be found puttering beneath it, gathering fallen sticks. She also loved hummingbirds and delighted in watching them flit around her yard.

Music was woven into her life from childhood. She played piano and violin when she was young and continued at the piano as an adult. She was known for singing and humming tunes, a small gift of music that many came to associate with her presence in her later years.

Claudine also loved to dance, and age never slowed her down. Well into her 80s she could drop into “the twist” so low that even the forty-somethings looked on in disbelief. She was also gifted with her hands, knitting left-handed despite being right-handed, creating countless afghans that her family still treasures. And when Paul needed custom drapes or upholstery for his second job, Claudine was his seamstress though she was quick to say, with a laugh, “Then you try it,” whenever his requests were a bit more complicated than he realized.

Claudine took care of her health and was a devoted supplement taker. Her exercise routine made her a familiar sight downtown. Claudine often walked from her home to the office, and later, when she no longer drove, walking simply became her way of life. She was rarely without her beloved companions, her little dogs, all named “Teddy", whether gray or white. She adored them wholeheartedly. Claudine cherished her morning walks to her favorite café, Le Fernandez, arriving early for a chai tea and a chocolate croissant and a warm welcome from the family and employees. The family there loved her, and she loved them in return.

She was blessed with many wonderful caregivers over the years, including Wendell and Deb, Judy, Caregivers from Journey North past and present and many others she held close to her heart, even if she rarely wanted assistance. Claudine was fiercely independent, determined, and full of spirit until the very end.

Her expressive eyes, which grew wide and bright whenever she was plotting something mischievous, were one of her most unmistakable traits. Her family will forever miss her dancing energy, her mischievous grin, her songs, her kindness, and the unwavering love she poured into their lives.

We will miss you, Mom.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellice A. and Myrtle L. (Riley) McIntire; and two brothers, Larry and Steve McIntire. Survivors include her loving children, Toni (Jim) McNulty of Elizabethtown, Mark (Valerie) Staublin of Chicago, IL, Tina Staublin of Kingston, NH, and Matt (Carly) Staublin of Morage, CA; and brother, Stanley McIntire. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church with Rev. Nico Ajpacaja Tzoc officiating. The Rosary will be said at 8:45 a.m., visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place Saturday January 31at 12:00 p.m. at Garland Brook Cemetery.

Memorials in Claudine’s name are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to St. Bartholomew Catholic Church.

Please leave a fond memory of Claudine at www.Myers-Reed.com.