Claire Margaret Clanton (nee Ketterhagen), 91, of West Bend, found eternal peace Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012. Claire had been a resident of Ellen’s Home in Germantown for the last eight months.

Claire was born on May 5, 1921 in Burlington to Gertrude and Martin Ketterhagen.

Claire, as many women of her age, found employment in various factory jobs during World War II. While operating an overhead crane, she spotted a handsome gentleman below and vowed he would one day be her husband, and on Sept. 15, 1945 he was. Claire and Paul Clanton began their 47year journey through life together, residing in Pewaukee and Eagle River until her beloved husband’s passing in 1992. Claire then moved to West Bend where she has lived for the last 21 years. Claire was a long-time member of St. Frances Cabrini Parish in West Bend.

Claire is survived by her daughters Mary (Mark) Wendt of West Bend and Jackie Clanton of Wauwatosa, her son Joseph Clanton of Germantown as well as five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Paul, and brothers and sisters: Lawrence Ketterhagen, Harold Ketterhagen, Elmer Ketterhagen, Robert Ketterhagen, Marie Schmidt and Ann Schlickting.

A memorial service for Claire will be at 11 a.m. at Wisconsin Memorial Park (13235 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield) on Saturday, Dec. 22 with a luncheon to follow.

The Phillip Funeral Home of West Bend is assisting the family; (262) 338-2050 / www.phillipfuneralhome.com.