Clara Wylie (nee Schlenker) died unexpectedly on April 16, 2020.
Clara is survived by her son, Guy, daughter-in-law Lynda, grandsons Garret and Gavin of Calgary; her daughter, Heather, of Calgary; and her sister, Elsie (Gord) Kosmick, of Medicine Hat. She will also be dearly missed by many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Ed; her parents, Edward and Lydia Schlenker; and siblings Rose Filan, Al, Jack, Matt and Frieda Schlenker.
Clara was born and educated on a farm near Medicine Hat, the first in her family to be born in Canada. She moved from the farm to Medicine Hat to attend Alexandra High School, and during those years she worked at the Chocolate Shop. After secretarial school, Clara worked several jobs until she married, the longest as the receptionist at the Medicine Hat dental clinic.
Clara and Ed were married in 1962, and over the next 5 years the couple welcomed their children. After living several places in Alberta in the first 10 years of their marriage, the family returned to Medicine Hat in 1972 to raise their children closer to family. Eventually, Clara and Ed followed their grown children to Calgary.
Clara was a vibrant and active member of her community, and lived a full life right up until her passing. She was a faithful member of Southwood United Church, and sang in the church choir. Over the years, she volunteered for many organizations, the Calgary Foodbank, the Calgary Public Library, the Rockyview and Carewest Glenmore Park gift shops, to name just a few. She was also an active member of the Southside Seniors social club.
Clara loved music, loved to sing and dance, she was an avid reader, she loved history and travelling, she lived a curious and expansive life. Clara was dedicated to Ed and her children, and an adoring grandmother to Garret and Gavin, always looking for new and fun activities we could share as a family. She was also a caring and dedicated daughter, sister and aunt throughout her life. She is remembered as the family memory-keeper and storyteller, and these memories and stories will sustain us through this time.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Inn From the Cold, or your local foodbank, both causes Clara valued highly.
A private family graveside service will be held at the Hillside Cemetery. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. To share memories of Clara and express your condolences please go to: pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are by the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 2V6. Please call 1-866-526-2214 for further information.
