Clare Boettcher

Clare Elizabeth Boettcher (née Lenk), age 92, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at her home in Phoenix, Arizona, under the care of hospice and surrounded by love and family.

She was predeceased by her devoted husband Hulbert 'Herb' Boettcher and by her siblings Frances Lenk, Albert Lenk, Alberta Zita, Matilda Yablonski, and John Lenk.

Clare is survived by her loving children: Christopher and Marcia Boettcher of Maricopa, AZ; Katherine Stearns of Phoenix, AZ; Jennifer Boettcher and Kenneth Fishbein of Laurel, MD; Ruth Boettcher and Clive Ellis of Blenheim, New Zealand; and Andrew Boettcher of Lebanon, OH. She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Wesley and Danielle Boettcher; Nicholas and Kaitlyn Boettcher; Steven Stearns; Elle Boettcher; Erin Boettcher; as well as great-grandchildren Joey and Sophie Boettcher; Clara Boettcher; along with many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Born on May 11, 1933, in New Britain, Connecticut, Clare was the daughter of Elizabeth and Frank Lenk, who emigrated from Lithuania in the 1910s. She spent her early years on Franklin Street and later Church Street in New Britain, where her family were devoted parishioners of St. Andrew's Church. Clare attended St. Mary's School and graduated from New Britain High School before setting out to build a life of purpose and adventure.

With a strong sense of independence and determination, Clare moved to Washington, DC to begin her professional career with the United States Government. Her first job with the U.S. Department of Navy marked the beginning of a distinguished career in public service. In 1957 she joined the Central Intelligence Agency, which led her to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia—an assignment that would change her life forever. There she met Capt. Hulbert "Herb" Boettcher, a pilot with the United States Air Force who would become her one love, husband, and soulmate.

After raising their family, Clare returned to the CIA in 1979 and resumed her career with renewed vigor. Her assignments took her across the globe—from Boston, Massachusetts to international postings in Stuttgart, Germany; Hong Kong; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Stockholm, Sweden—reflecting both her professional excellence and intrepid spirit.

Clare was a devoted member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Ahwatukee. In retirement, she embraced life fully—hosting visiting family members and friends with warmth and enthusiasm, sharing stories from her remarkable life journey, offering candid opinions with characteristic zeal, and enjoying Arizona's famed sunshine. A passionate bridge player and seasoned traveler, Clare found joy in both intellectual pursuits and meaningful connections.

An inurnment ceremony will take place at a future date to reunite Clare with her beloved husband Herb in a columbarium located in Arlington National Cemetery. A celebration of Clare's life will follow once arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Clare's memory to St. Mary's Food Bank, Phoenix, Arizona, (602) 343-3188.

Clare's legacy lives on through those who knew her—a testament to a life lived with courage, conviction, love for family, service to country, and an enduring zest for life.

A Memorial Service will be held on February 20, 2026, at 09:30 AM at Corpus Christi Catholic Church 3550 E Knox Road, Phoenix, Arizona, 85044.