Clara V. Wauters

Clara V. Wauters, age 90, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 16, 2024. Born on September 16, 1933, to Yvonne and Homer Verstuyft, Clara was one of seven children, six sisters and a brother, all raised on the family's vegetable farm. Her early years were filled with hard work, laughter, and the tight-knit camaraderie of a large Belgian-American family. Rooted deeply in faith, Clara was baptized and married at St. John Berchman’s Catholic Church, a cherished part of the Belgian community.

At age 18, Clara married John Wauters, embarking on a life filled with adventure as John's army career and studies in geology took them across the country. They welcomed five children between 1953 and 1964. Clara was a dedicated homemaker, lovingly caring for her family and fostering a home rich in love, faith, and music. Clara was fond of singing, and her children have wonderful memories of singing folk songs during long car trips to visit family. Clara continued her singing until just days before her passing. Once her children were in school, Clara pursued a career as an income tax consultant with H&R Block, working part-time for 20 years. In her leisure time, she enjoyed crossword puzzles, card games, bowling, and square dancing. Retirement brought Clara and John back to San Antonio, where they became active members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Helotes. Clara joined the Altar Society and a quilting club, bowled in a league, and participated in bunco and canasta clubs. The couple also cherished travel, creating lasting memories on trips and cruises with friends and family.

Clara's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted "Mema" to her grandchildren, always ready with a cuddle, a song, or a home-cooked meal. Clara and John hosted Sunday family dinners for years, ensuring that the family bond remained strong. Even as John's health declined, Clara cared for him with unwavering love and patience, exemplifying the strength and dedication of their 70-year marriage.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John F. Wauters; parents, sisters Alice (Cyril) and Laura (Phil) Aelvoet, and brother Homer Jr. Verstuyft (Jan), Clara leaves behind a legacy of love and faith. She is survived by her five children: Carol Solis (Luis), David Wauters (Kelly), Donna Bodiford, Cynthia Ashley (Billy), and Mary Divita (Charlie); her sisters Laurine Van Hecke (Joe), Hilda Wauters (Fred), and Margie Lubianski; 15 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Danny, Chloe, Rosie, Debbie, and Michelle at Danny’s Care Home, whose tender care enriched Clara's final years. Special gratitude also goes to Elsa and Debra, who lovingly assisted in Clara's home care, and to the dedicated staff of Guiding Light Hospice, especially nurse Pat.

Clara’s family is also deeply grateful to her sisters Laurine, Hilda, and Margie, and brother-in-law Fred, whose visits and cards brought Clara immense joy.Clara's life was a testament to love, family, and faith, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.

The family will receive friends and family from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m, on Friday, June 28, 2024, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Helotes.

ROSARYFRIDAY, JUNE 28, 202410:30 A.M.OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH13715 RIGGS ROAD, HELOTES, TEXAS 78023

MASSFRIDAY, JUNE 28, 202411:00 A.M.OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH

Reception to follow in parish hall.

Interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery at Cordi-Marian, 11624 Culebra Road, San Antonio, Texas, on Monday, July 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Belgian-American Club Scholarship Fund, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, or a charity of your choice.