Surrounded by her loving family, Claire Marie Clunan completed her earthly journey on Tuesday, May 20 after a courageous battle against multiple myeloma. Born in Lancaster on January 8, 1954, she was a daughter of the late John P. Stank Sr. and Claire Yentzer Stank.

Claire was a woman of strong faith who loved serving God and people. She was a soft, nurturing mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose mission in life was to help others enhance their spiritual and physical health. Always optimistic and encouraging, she embraced and accepted everyone, including many members of her extended family whom she regarded as her own.

She was a 1971 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School and a member of Lancaster Christian Alliance, where she served as a Stephen Minister, providing one-to-one Christian care to individuals experiencing difficulties in their lives. The greatest joys in her life were her daughters, Rebecca Lee Clunan of Mount Joy and Melissa Tritt of Lancaster, and her grandchildren, Charlotte (Lottie) Tritt and Aaron Ryan. Claire was an animal lover, and her little dog, Cyndal, brought her joy and comfort and was at her side when she passed.

Claire graduated from HACC with a certificate in Massage Therapy and became known for her gentle, healing massage. She had a love of organic gardening and natural healing remedies. She also had a special knack for knowing when someone was experiencing a challenge in life and would often show up simply to offer comfort and guidance. When she was only 16, Claire saved a young child's life by rescuing the little girl from a fire in the house where Claire was babysitting.

Earlier in her life, she was a partner in Blue Mountain Spring Water Company, and she also worked in sales and accounting.

7 sisters and brothers survive Claire: Barbara (William Simpson) Lancaster; Christine Peppers, Lancaster; Liza Zimmerman, Lancaster; Julie Abel (Michael), Lancaster; Joseph Stankiewicz (Beth Conklin), Lancaster ; John P. Stank, Jr., Lancaster; Geoffrey Stankiewicz (Mary Kegel) Lancaster. Also surviving are Claire's devoted aunt, Gene Schacht of Lancaster, and 13 nieces and nephews.

The family extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Shyam Balepur and the entire staff at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute for the compassionate care that they gave to Claire during her fight.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 24, 2014 at 11 AM at Lancaster Alliance Church, 210 Pitney Road, Lancaster, PA with Pastor Carl S. McGarvey officiating. The family will receive guests from 9:30 until 11AM at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Claire's memory may be made to Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute Fund, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601