Claire LeMay Derosier

Claire LeMay Derosier, 89, of Crookston MN, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at Valley Senior Living in Grand Forks, ND. She was born on January 30, 1936, in Crookston, the daughter of Alton and Blanche Ellingson, and was one of seven children. Claire graduated from Cathedral High School in 1954. Following high school, she attended the Bethesda Hospital Nursing Program, where she earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) degree.

On July 7, 1956, Claire married Eddie Derosier of Crookston at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Shortly after, they moved to Detroit MI, where Eddie was drafted into the U.S. Army and they welcomed their first child, Eddie Jr. After returning to Crookston, Claire worked alongside an orthopedic Doctor at the Crookston Clinic. In the late 1970's, Claire and Eddie purchased a small motel in Crookston, which they successfully ran for more than 10 years. Together, they raised four more children - Marc, Beth, Mary, and Matt.

Claire's children were a source of great joy in her life. Together they created countless memories, including many camping trips to Norway Beach at Cass Lake where Claire would fondly recall with a smile, " I changed many diapers in a tent!" Claire traveled to several countries to include over 30 days visiting England, France, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Holland and Italy. Another family pastime was fishing at Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort on Lake of the Woods, a tradition they enjoyed for 42 years. Claire had a lifelong love of music and often sang with her four sisters. She enjoyed serving as a cantor for many years at the Cathedral in Crookston. She was a prayer warrior, always encouraging faith development and practice. Claire also cherished the times she spent with her sisters, enjoying shows at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre-occasions filled with laughter, warmth, and sisterly connection. These simple moments of family togetherness were deeply meaningful to her. Alongside her dedication to family and work, Claire found joy in calligraphy, travel, reading and dancing.

Claire is survived by her husband of 69 years, Eddie, and their five children; Eddie Jr (Kris) Derosier, Marc (Elaine Pfeiffer) Derosier, Beth (Gary) DeBoer, Mary (Tom) Strand, Matt (Jennifer) Derosier. Claire is also survived by her sister, Diane (Jack) Hendrickston. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren - Tyler, Sarah, Kelsey, Nicole, Samantha, Jack, and Kate - and was blessed to have two great-grandchildren, Owen and Madelyn.

Claire's love and kindness touched everyone around her, and her family will carry her spirit with them always. She had a heart full of generosity and an enormously kind smile. Though she will be deeply missed, her warmth and memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Claire will be laid to rest in Crookston, MN at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Monday, September 8th at 2pm. Visitation beginning one hour prior, 1pm.