St. George, Utah - Marion passed away at her home in St. George, Utah, in the early hours of November 15, 2021. She lived 100 years and 7 months. She was born in New York City on April 15, 1921, to Marion and Stephen Nawrath. Marion's mother was born to Czech immigrants who owned a boarding house in NYC. Marion's father immigrated from Czechoslovakia and stayed at the boarding house where he would meet his future wife. Marion often remarked how she only spoke Czech the first five years of her life. After a few years the family moved to New Jersey, where Marion grew up, and eventually met her husband, George Clare, of Fort Lee, NJ.

George was part of the Greatest Generation, serving in the US Army during WWII. George and Marion became engaged before George departed for England and the subsequent invasion of Europe. He was on a ship heading to Japan when the Japanese surrendered. He returned home and they were married in February of 1946.

A brief return to civilian life occurred after the war, but the conflict in Korea called George back to active duty and off he went, while Marion was left to care for their two young children. With his return to service, George decided to make a career of the Army, and the adventurous life as a military family began. Eventually two more children were born. The family would move every 2-3 years and see much of the world, including Hawaii and Taiwan. Marion was a remarkable woman, wife, and mother. She was the glue that held the family together throughout the many moves. She reveled in seeing new places and meeting new people. One highlight for her was giving a speech in Taipei at a luncheon that was held for Madame Chiang Kai-shek, the wife of the Taiwanese leader.

After being stationed in Hawaii multiple times, George and Marion decided to retire there in 1977. They lived many years in paradise and played lots of golf on all the islands. They were also avid bridge players and played frequently with many good friends.

Feeling the need to be closer to their children, who had settled on the mainland, George and Marion decided to move to St. George, Utah in 1993 and thus began another adventure. They enjoyed the freedom of hitting the open road that the mainland offered. They traveled and played golf throughout the Mountain West.

Marion, in addition to Army wife duties, also volunteered her time to non-profit thrift stores either on army bases or with her local Catholic churches. Marion was a devout Catholic with a strong faith. George and Marion were very involved in the St. George Catholic Church and made many friends over the years.

In her later years, Marion spent time in Park City with her daughter, Maryanne. Marion loved Park City and often remarked how fortunate she was to be there. While in Park City in September, Marion suffered a heart attack and eventually developed heart failure. The last few months were rough, with ER visits and hospital/rehab stays. A bright light in the midst of this suffering was the birth of a great-granddaughter in October, in St. George. Marion very much wanted to meet her in person. Maryanne managed to get her back to her home in St. George, and great-grandmother and great-granddaughter shared many tender moments. They are 100 years apart.

Marion was preceded in death by George in 2007. There was not a day that passed that she wouldn't say, "George, come get me!". Her children would remind her George was in heaven playing golf. Well, George finally put his clubs down and came to get her. Now, they are both teeing it up in paradise, happy as clams. Mom, so glad you are reunited with your beloved soulmate, George.

Marion is survived by her four children: George Clare Jr. (Tandra) of Mountain View, CA, Susan Rich (Francis) of St. George, Utah, Frank Clare (MacBook Pro M1 Max) of Prague, Czech Republic and Maryanne Clare (Karen, her "3 ^rd daughter") of Park City, Utah; two grandchildren: Martin Falster of Irvine, CA and Anne Schwab (Michael) of St. George, Utah; one great-grandchild, Eleanor Schwab; and finally, two very dear four-legged companions, Lani and Graham.

The medical help Marion received in the last few months has been greatly appreciated by her family. So many kind and caring people were met along this last journey. We want to especially thank Applegate Hospice. More than one midnight call was answered, and comfort found. Thank you, Susan and Katie.

In lieu of flowers, please support your local non-profit and those in need.

A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, December 1, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at the St. George Catholic Church located at 259 West 200 North, St. George, Utah. Interment will follow in Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 South Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah.