Claudette Donna Sundwall Bigler

Donna Claudette Sundwall Bigler passed away peacefully on August 19, 2022. Claudette was 84 years old. She is now in the company of her loving parents, her sister Jessie, her eternal companion Richard, and the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Claudette was born on October 27, 1937 in Fairview, Utah to Claude Arthur Sundwall and Donna Peterson. Claudette was the eldest sister to Jeri Charlier and Jessie Firmage—three sisters who were known for singing three-part harmonies together at local events.

Growing up, Claudette played softball and was known as the “Sundwall Slugger.” She graduated from Provo High School and attended Brigham Young University where she played her violin with the BYU Symphony. Claudette would later go on to perform her violin for dignitaries in Hong Kong, China—a cherished experience for her.

Claudette married the love of her life, Richard Anderson Bigler, on June 23, 1972. After forming a long-distance relationship over the phone, they decided to finally meet in person. Spotting each other at the airport, it was love at first sight. Richard proposed during that first encounter, and they were married 2 weeks later. They both felt it was inspired of the Lord. They were sealed in the Los Angeles Temple.

Claudette and Richard joined their families together which included the children from her first marriage to Lorimer Christensen. The children they raised were Carrie Fossati, Suzanne Franz, Sonny Bigler, David Bigler and Michelle Page. Claudette and Richard were married 42 years. They have 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren who lovingly call her “Nam.” Claudette found delight in hosting elaborate parties to create family memories, most notably among the grandchildren were her Easter parties complete with grand egg hunts and real-life Easter bunny visits.

Claudette was exceptionally talented and creative. She found pleasure creating lovely dolls from paper mache and clay. Her homemade bread was famous in the family, the aroma greeting you as you entered her home. Claudette was a gifted writer and loved dancing, family history, and sewing. She was an expert seamstress. She presented her children and grandchildren with beautifully sewn costumes and dresses. Claudette was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and enjoyed serving in capacities such as the Relief Society President and Primary Chorister.

Above all, Claudette valued family and loved them fiercely. In life she was driven with purpose and determination—”make it work” was the family motto. She lived her life with a certain flair and a dose of glamour that always made her fun and fascinating. She had a deeply generous heart and was always serving others. Claudette was loved by all and will be missed.

Interment service for Claudette will be held at Sanger Cemetery on Friday, September 9th at 2:00PM. The address is 568 S. Rainbow Avenue.

Claudette will be honored on Saturday, September 10th at 10:00AM at the Sanger Ward Chapel at 810 N. Bethel Ave, Sanger, CA.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.boicefuneralhome.com for the Bigler family.