Clare Bell Martin

Obituary Clare Martin Clare Martin was born Clare Bell Crapnell on June 17, 1930, in Pekin, Illinois, and left this earth from Tacoma, Washington, on July 21, 2013. She graduated from Pekin High School in 1947 and married that same year. She raised three children, who survive her: Keith Gerling (Laura) of Sugar Grove Illinois, Sandi Gerling (Lee Roth) of Tacoma, Washington and Cyd Knoble (Tom) of Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Her grandchildren are Zak Knoble, Chloe Knoble, Jack Gerling and Lena Roth. Her marriage ended in divorce. She was predeceased by her parents, Lillian (Pfeiffer) Crapnell and Clarence Crapnell; and her sisters Patricia Robinson and Genevieve Thorne. She is also survived by a later addition to her chosen family, Molly Jenks, her dear caregiver. Clare had a sense of style and subtle wit until her last day. She was a trailblazing, independent woman at a time when women were just learning that this was a possibility. A few examples of her strength and determination were moving her three children to a community where she had few connections, hours away from her home; because she knew the family needed a fresh start and a good school district. She supported her children by working as a legal secretary when legal briefs had to be typed out on a typewriter, in legalese, and still be perfect! She was most proud of her work with the McHenry County Judges in northern Illinois. There were some tough times, but she never considered taking state assistance, even if it meant that for a time, she had to sell vacuum cleaners - a job most definitely not in keeping with her withdrawn personality or skill set. She also overcame her shyness when she felt called on to preach as a Methodist lay minister in rural central Illinois in her early seventies. In her spare time, she enjoyed ballroom dancing until her legs were too weak, needlepoint until her hands were unable, reading, solitude and chocolate always. Her greatest natural talent was in the nurturing of her children. Each of her children and grandchildren were cherished for their own uniqueness, and encouraged to pursue their dreams wherever they might lead. It's a legacy we will carry with us forever. Memorial Services will take place in central Illinois and will be announced at a later date. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.