Clara Mae Crites went home to be with Jesus on Oct. 8, 2022, at the age of 97. She was born to Henry and Matilda (Jorgenson) Ashim on Sept. 29, 1925, in Harmony, Minnesota. When she was six years old her mother passed away. She was fostered by several good families growing up. In 1942, Clara moved from Iowa to Hoquiam with the Ask family. In 1943, she met her future husband, Oshel Crites. They married on July 6, 1944.

Together Oshel and Clara raised seven children, adopted a niece and provided care for two granddaughters. She worked for Carlson’s Jewelry for a time and was a Realtor for Dale Crites & Associates. She was a long-time member of the Montesano Assembly of God Church, enjoyed crafting and all things Christmas.

Clara is survived by her sons: Michael (Becky), Allen (Kim), Dean (Tusdee) and Todd Crites; daughter Heidi (Randy) Hill and daughter-in-law Michelle; 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Oshel, sons Dale and Paul, daughter Patricia, daughter-in-law Sue,and grandson Justin.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022, at 11 a.m. at the Montesano Church of God, 317 East Spruce Avenue, Montesano. Memorials may be made in Clara’s name to PAWS of Grays Harbor.

Arrangements entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary of Aberdeen.