Claire E. Karpowich

Claire E. (McNelis) Karpowich of Drums passed away Friday in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton.

Born in Hazleton, she was the daughter of the late William F. and Catherine (O'Donnell) McNelis.

Claire attended St. Ann's School, Freeland, and was a graduate of Freeland High School. Furthering her education, she attended Bloomsburg University, where she received a bachelor's degree as well as a master's degree in education.

She retired after 34 years of teaching for the Hazleton Area School District at Freeland Elementary/Middle School. Claire was a member of the Immaculate Conception Parish at St. Ann's Church, Freeland, and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, where she had been a past Pennsylvania state president and also an assistant editor of the National Hibernian Digest. She enjoyed traveling, especially with her family to Delaware.

Preceding her in death, in addition to her parents, was a son, Master Sgt. Paul D. Karpowich.

Surviving are her husband of 20 years, Richard Karpowich, at home, a son, Phillip D. Karpowich and wife, Holly, Portland, Ore.; daughters, Kristen R. Holloway and husband, Johnathan, Severn, Md.; Joanna Karpowich, Hazleton; a sister, Kathleen Bartosevich and husband, David, Glen Burnie, Md.; and grandchildren, Nataleigh Moore, Jordan Holloway, Dominic Holloway, Gianna Holloway, Gabrielle Barna and Paul Holloway. Also surviving are nephews, Ian Bartosevich and wife, Richelle; Karl Bartosevich and wife, Catherine; Daniel Bartosevich and wife, Allison; five great-nieces and -nephews, and long-term caregiver Rita Fisher.

The Rev. Michael Kloton will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 10 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Parish at St. Ann's Church, 898 Centre St., Freeland, followed by burial in St. Ann's Cemetery, Freeland. Family and friends may pay their respects in church Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m.

The family would appreciate memorial donations, in Claire's name, be sent to: Freeland PTA, 400 Alvin St., Freeland, PA 18224.

McHugh-Wilczek Funeral Home, 249 Centre St., Freeland, is in charge of arrangements.