Claire Walter Redniss

Claire Walter Redniss, 87, passed away on June 7, 2011, at the Rosenthal Hospice Residence, after a short fight with pancreatic cancer. Born October 15, 1923 at Stamford Hospital, Claire was a proud graduate of Stark School, Stamford High School’s Class of 1941, and the Mandl School for Medical Assistants in 1942.Her parents, Isadore and Sara (Shulman) Walter were founding members of the Jewish Community Center and Temple Beth El. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert L. Redniss, and brother, Arnold Walter.

Claire is survived by her brother, Herb and his wife Sheila; her sons and their spouses, Raymond and Jaime and Richard and Robin; her grandchildren Seth, Lauren, Jesse (Andrea) Bryan, Katherine, and great-grandson, Stone. Claire also leaves nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her extended families at Edgehill, Redniss & Mead, and all those whose lives she touched. Family, friends, working and public service filled her life. As a member for over seven decades, Claire had a strong commitment to Hadassah where she served as Group and Chapter President, chaired virtually all committees, and held other leadership positions, including as Editor of the award winning newsletter. The following are some of the awards with which she was presented: Hand of Healing, Woman of the Year, Book of Builders, and The National Leadership Award. Her personal passions were singing and music. At Stamford High School she sang in the a cappella choir and went on to become president and soprano soloist with the Stamford Choral Society. She cherished her sixty -three years singing in the Temple Beth El choir. Claire performed on WSTC on many occasions, including the Jewish War Veterans / City of Stamford Citizen of the Year dinners in the 1960s. Throughout her life she was a supporter of the arts including the Stamford Symphony, Stamford Theater Works, and Long Wharf Theater. Claire was very active in the Pink Tent Festival that celebrated the Arts in the Mill River Park. Other civic activities important to her included the auxiliaries of Stamford and St Joseph Hospitals. Work at Redniss and Mead since 1957 was a meaningful and integral part of her life. Claire never retired…she drove herself to work every day until very recently.

Funeral services will take place Friday June 10th at 1 pm at Temple Beth El, 350 Roxbury Road in Stamford. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hadassah, Temple Beth El, or the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are being handled by Leo P. Gallagher Sons Funeral Home. To express condolences please visit www.leopgallagherstamford.com