She lived in Denver until she was 12, and the family moved to the farm on Kersey Road. Clara went to school in Keenesburg and graduated from Keenesburg High School. After high school, she worked at Morey Mercantile Co. and the Colorado State Bank until she married Lyle Smith on January 12, 1952. They were together for 52 years. After Lyle's discharge from the service, they settled on the farm on "4 corners" where they lived until they built their house in Keenesburg.
Clara was a member of the Community Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School, was a youth sponsor, served as secretary of the board for several years, served as treasurer for eight years and sang in their choir. She was also a charter member for Epsilon Sigma Alpha.
Lyle and Clara farmed for over 40 years and she worked beside Lyle on the farm until three years before they quit farming. She had part time jobs after farming.
Clara enjoyed sewing, reading, loved arranging flowers with her sister, and spending time with her grandchildren and family. She took care of her Mom, Mother-In-Law, as well as Lyle until their passing.
Clara is survived in life by her daughters, Sallie (Bill) Linnebur, and Susan DeShon; son, Tim (Teri) Smith; sisters, Dru Housand, Phyll Morman, and Georgene Brnak; 8 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
She is preceded in death by per parents; her husband, Lyle Smith; brother, Butch Gurtler; and grandson, Bob Dowdy.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community United Methodist Church, 195 S. Main Street, Keenesburg, Colorado 80643.
A Funeral Service for Clara will be on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Community United Methodist Church, 195 S. Main Street, Keenesburg, Colorado 80643 with Interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery, 14800 Old Brighton Road, Brighton, Colorado 80601.
