ATKINS: Clara Marie Sessler Theis, 90, formerly of Wilton Junction died Monday, June 12, 2006 in Heritage Nursing & Rehab Center, Cedar Rapids following an extended illness.
Services: 10:30 A.M., Saturday, St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in Atkins by Rev. Douglas Woltemath. Burial: St. Stephen's Cemetery, Atkins. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 P.M Friday., at the church.
Clara was born July 5, 1915 in Wilton, Iowa daughter of John and Carolina (Grunder) Sessler. She married Wilmer H. H. Theis December 20, 1936 in Wilton, Iowa. He preceded her in death March 29, 1996.
In earlier years she and her husband managed a dairy farm near Atkins. She also worked at Kelty's, Globe and later Eby's Sporting Goods in Cedar Rapids. She was a member of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church for 70 years. She was an active member of the Ladies Society, LWML, Nimble Fingers Quilting, Choir, the Organ Restoration Committee, Senior Housing and many other church and civic committees. She enjoyed playing card, entertaining friends, cooking, gardening and quilting. Music was an important part of her life.
Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Carolyn and Joe Jacobi of Rapid City, SD, Judith and Tony Smith of Atkins; sons and daughters-in-law, James and Ruth Ann Theis of Rochester, IL, Jonathan and Leslie Theis of Castroville, TX; eleven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Sessler (Eloise) of Wilton; sisters-in law, Vera Sessler of Durant, Lydia Theis Larrabee (Lamont) of Westminister, CO; plus many nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Herbert, Harold, Alvin, Richard, Alfred, and Arthur, and son, Timothy.
The family wishes to thank the staff and friends at Heritage, St. Luke's, Amenity Hospice, members of her extended family and her friend of over 75 years, Irene Clark.
Memorials may be made to St. Stephen's Renovation Fund, or Amenity Hospice.
Phillips Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
