Claire passed away peacefully, after a short stay at Victoria Hospice.
Claire is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 54 years, Daniel, her so loved daughter Lauren and son Bryan, her beloved sister Frances Jonson, niece Holly Jonson, nephews Nathan Wairoa (Emily and son Casper), Mathew Jonson (Jay and daughter Kaila), nephews Matthew and Patrick Kelly, brothers-in-law Shawn, William (Maureen), Patrick (Eloise) Kelly and some 28 Kelly nephews and nieces, mostly in Ontario. She also leaves to mourn her cousins, Dorothy (John) Waycott, Arthur (Lesley) Wootton, David (Cathy) Wootton, Donna Balagno and Carol Penhollow and extended family.
Claire was predeceased by her parents, Stan and Eleanor Dalby, and Aunt Bonnie Dafoe.
Born in Penticton, Claire spent a happy childhood surrounded by the love of her parents, sister and extended family. Some of her happiest childhood memories were of the long summer days spent at Skaha Lake.
Growing up with a deep appreciation for music, Claire displayed a gift for piano from an early age, reaching Grade 10 Piano in only 5 years. Classical music especially piano remained one of her lifelong passions and greatest joys. Claire continued to study and play as an adult, and music was always at the heart of her home. She developed an extensive knowledge of the piano repertoire and could identify most piano composers and their music. Her love of music inspired her children to become accomplished musicians, continuing a cherished family tradition.
Claire chose a career in nursing and graduated in 1968 from Royal Columbian Hospital, in New Westminster. Her first nursing position took her to Terrace, B.C. where she met the love of her life, Daniel in 1969. They were married in 1972 in Penticton and with Dan’s transfers, lived in Vancouver, Edmonton, Ponoka, and Grande Prairie, Alta. until moving to Victoria in 1984.
In her later years Claire became an accomplished bridge player, with a never- ending thirst to perfect her game. She was a long-time member of Beta Sigma Phi and forged deep lasting friendships with both groups. She enjoyed keeping up with current events and read national newspapers every day. Also, among her favourite pleasures was swimming at Durrance Lake, with her long-time friend, Evelyn. She enjoyed a variety of musical concerts, gentle walks in nature and felt deeply connected to the West Coast.
Friends knew her as ‘The Gracious Lady’, a reflection of her quiet elegance, gentle spirit, and enduring kindness
The family extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Galina Turpin, doctors, staff and volunteers at Victoria Hospice and to Archdeacon Dr. Lon Towstego for his compassion and blessing.
A Memorial Service will be held September 15, 2026, at St. Mary the Virgin, Anglican Church, 1701 Elgin Street, Oak Bay, B.C., at 1PM with Venerable Dr. Lon Towstego and Reverend Jacqueline Stober officiating. Service will be live streamed at https://www.stmarysoakbay.ca/
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honour Claire’s memory may kindly donate to Victoria Hospice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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