Claire C. Sickler, 97, passed away on February 17, at St. Anne's Retirement Community, Columbia, where she resided since June 2007.

She was the widow of Sears H. Sickler, Jr. who preceded her in death, passing away in April 2008, after over 67 years of marriage. Claire was born on January 13, 1917, in Lancaster. She was the daughter of the late Helen Maher Karr and James Maher.

Claire was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.

Although she spent most of her life in Lancaster, some of Claire's fondest memories were of her childhood summers in Bellefonte, PA, with her mother, brothers and maternal grandparents. After high school and before getting married, Claire worked at Armstrong World Industries. She later returned to Armstrong while her late husband, Sears, was in the Navy. After her children were grown, Claire was the bookkeeper for the former Goldbach's Floral Shop in downtown Lancaster.

She lived the majority of her life in the west-end of Lancaster and greatly enjoyed that part of the city. She was an avid reader and also enjoyed playing cards, having played in a pinochle card club with the same group of ladies for almost 50 years. Claire loved life and touched every person she met with her remarkable warmth and spirit. She saw and embraced the good in everyone.

Claire's family would like to extend its most sincere thanks and heartfelt appreciation to the staff at St. Anne's Retirement Community. Their care, compassion and professionalism will never be forgotten. Sincere thanks also to the Silver Team of Hospice & Community Care, who aided in the wonderful care that Claire received.

Claire will be lovingly remembered and forever missed. Survivors include four children; a son, William Sickler of Lancaster, and three daughters, Helen Sickler, Lancaster, Eileen Sickler, spouse of Sarah Willard of Burlington, MA, and Mary Low, wife of Richard Low, Lancaster. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Maher of Lancaster, as well as three grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends and neighbors. In addition to her late husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, John Maher, and by her infant sister, Margaret Maher.

A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 am Saturday February 22, 2014, in the Chapel at St. Anne's Retirement Community, with Msgr. Richard Onwuanibe as Celebrant. Claire's family will receive friends from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. Burial at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Anne's Retirement Community, 3952 Columbia Avenue, Columbia, PA 17512.