Obituary of Claire Brown

Claire Ellen Jacks was born in Baldwin, New York on February 8, 1930. She was the daughter of the late Albert Walter Jacks and the late Signe (Niemi) Jacks. Her family moved to Michigan when Claire was still a child. They ventured "up north" and finally settled in Calumet. She graduated from Calumet High School in 1947 and later married the love of her life, Edward S. Brown. Claire earned her Bachelor Degree as a Registered Nurse and was employed with Mercy Memorial Hospital for 43 years. She was very proud of her profession, and was also the family nurse. Claire received her spiritual nourishment at St. Paul's Methodist Church in Monroe, where she was a member for many years. Claire often spoke of her husband, Edward, with loving reverence. She continued to love him long after his passing, never wishing to replace him. Claire was a loving mother and doting grandmother. She shared a great relationship with each member of her family and enjoyed spending time with them. Her niece, Eleanor, was very special to her and they loved spending time together. Claire enjoyed playing cards, gardening and traveling. She especially loved going "up home" to Calumet. Claire was an avid Detroit Tigers fan. She never missed an opportunity to watch a game and root "her boys" on. Claire Ellen Brown, age 82 of Monroe, was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at Mercy Memorial Hospital surrounded by her family. She was reunited by her beloved husband, Edward. In addition to her parents and husband, her passing was preceded by her brother: Albert, and four sisters: Peggy, Signe, Loraine, and Elaine. To cherish her memory she leaves two sons: Dan Brown of Lambertville, and James (Kimberly) Brown of Temperance; two daughters: Susie (Dave) Burgess of Saint Clair, and Merri Hawpe of Ann Arbor; a sister: Lois Schneipp of Tawas; eight grandchildren: Cheynea, Dayna, Stacey, Sammy, DJ, Katelyn, Grace, and Matthew; five great-grandchildren: Lyndsey, Caleb, Emma, Dylan, and Derrick; special nieces: Sandy, Eleanor, and Robin, and several other nieces and nephews. Friends may gather from 11:00am until 3:00pm on Saturday, December 15, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will follow at 3:00pm, with Reverend Evans Bentley officiating. The family wishes to thank Dr. Javaid, the staff at Alice Lorraine Care Center, the third floor nursing staff at Mercy Memorial Hospital and Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Salvation Army or St. Paul's Methodist Church. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.