Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1948
DIED
2016
FUNERAL HOME
Clarice Kofoid Obituary
Clarice "Claire" Kofoid, died on Saturday, April 23, after a brief illness that neither diminished her laughter, nor her love of life and chocolate.
Clarice was a life-long resident of Joliet, born to Tony and Rosella Ferro in 1948 joining big-sister and best friend Carolyn (Ferro). In 1975, she married Karl Kofoid, the love of her life, becoming step-mom to Laura (David Ricci), Andy (Monique Kofoid) and Doug (Marie Geanuleas), whom she loved and lectured as her own, and treasured her sister-in-law Mary Lou (Ward Theilman). The family grew with the birth of her daughter Tavia (Scott Westbrook), whom Claire loved "to the moon and back" as she liked to say.
Claire was a wizard in the kitchen and a goddess with a glue gun. She adored celebrations, holidays, parties, get-togethers, card games, backyard bashes, shindigs, intimate dinners, evenings out, evenings in, pre-parties, after-parties, and any excuse to be with friends and family. Attending one of her soirees, you could be assured that you would eat too much, drink too much, laugh too much and stay out way past your bedtime. If you were invited over (or just happened to be driving by) during Halloween or Christmas, her two favorite holidays, you might marvel at both the decorations filling every square inch ... and the infinite patience and good nature of her beloved husband Karl.
For over 30 years, Claire shared her passion for cooking and entertaining to legions of students from Hufford Junior High and Joliet West as a Foods and Nutrition teacher. She was an inspiration in the classroom, imparting recipes, and tips and tricks, for cooking everything from meal basics to sumptuous desserts and enabling her students to cater important school events.
For Clarice, there was no "retire" in retirement. Rather, retirement was simply more time to do more and spend more time with those she loved. From substitute teaching to helping friends with whatever they needed whenever they asked (or didn't) to near constant volunteering, Claire's life was full. She did not, however, waste one precious minute organizing much of anything, so kitchen cabinets were opened carefully and with caution warnings. Summer months were spent with Karl on their boat, cruising Lake Michigan and moving the aforementioned get-togethers to the water. Her favorite summer party was always on July 3 surrounded by friends and family in Monroe Harbor with fireworks booming overhead and the 1812 Overture playing in the background. "We are so lucky. This is the best year ever!" she would exclaim every single year.
Claire took great joy in being "Nammy" to her grandkids, Claire and Lucy Westbrook, Sophie, Julien and Michael Kofoid, Simon and CJ Ricci, and Jack Kofoid ... and her granddog Scout. Sleepovers, excursions, craft projects, favorite meals, dessert-before-AND-after-dinner, and Christmas with so-many-presents-you-can;t-count made "Nammy" or Grandma Claire one special grandma.
In life, Clarice's motto was, "I'll sleep when I'm dead." Her friends and family find that hard to imagine. The fun in heaven is just beginning.
Claire loved flowers, so if you'd like, send a bunch to someone who needs a pick-me-up or to your favorite hospital or nursing home. If you'd rather, please make a donation to Joliet Area Community Hospice, whose help and care was precious to her family. Please send your donation to 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60435.
A celebration of Claire's big, beautiful life will be held on Saturday, April 30, from 11:00 to 4:00 at Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, 2320 Black Road, Joliet, IL 60435.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Clarice Kofoid
Sponsored by Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home.
Dominic Hudgens
January 29, 2024
I just thought of Mrs Kofoid the other day and was heartbroken to find this obituary.
She taught me so much and she really saw me in a way that I didn´t understand until I was much older.
Sending her family nothing but love and light.
Lorenzo Zuniga
April 22, 2023
Because of you, I know how to sew and somewhat cook. You made an impact on me in my middle school years that will last my lifetime. Thank you, you are always remembered.
Wade
April 21, 2023
IT was always ajoy to see her on the river or at yacht club events. she is truly missed.
Wade Schroder Past Commodore Three Rivers Yacht Club
noreen capista
April 21, 2022
You are never forgotten ,six years later and your name comes up often .So many memories of you being you .
We miss you
Thomas Arambasich
December 13, 2021
I was just remembering all the fun April and I had with Karl and Clarice. I remember them coming over one night and Clarice wanted me to show her how I made meat-balls. That was a fun night, as any time with the two of them were always a good time. Neither of us knew that Clarice had passed, we were pain Arkansas at that time of the year but I just don´t know, otherwise would have been there to say good bye. Well now Clarice and April are having a great time together in Heaven. God bless you Clarice and Karl . I miss hanging out with you guys. Tom Arambasich
LInda Kubinski
April 23, 2021
The smile you wore, the way you talked and the many things we remember about you. We cherish those happy days we spent together. We still miss you.
April 22, 2019
I met Clarice on the river my nick name for her was "Hello Dolly"! Her bright nature and wonderful smile and speech pattern gave her that nick name to me, When I told her that was my nick name for her I was a little sheepish and didn't quite know what the response would be, I guess she had heard that one before as it seemed old news to her. I never brought it up again but I was glad I had told her my endearing nick name for her
Constance Kozikowski
April 22, 2019
Clarice always wore this fabulous large jewelry. I was totally in awe of her being capable of wearing it in such a regal fashion. Claire, I finally bought large green amber jewelry from Gdansk. Poland at last spring's Gem & Jewelry Show in Rosemont. I thank you for your influence. Love, Koz.
Shannon Rawley
May 5, 2016
Perhaps 15 years ago, Mom and I were in the food court of Marshall Fields around Christmas time. From waaaaay across the room I see an energetic woman wearing one of those bobble headbands. I turned to Mom and said, "that woman reminds me of Clarice". I looked again and it WAS Clarice! When I learned of her passing I remembered that day because it's a testament to her one of a kind nature. She was definitely unique in only the best ways. Such great childhood memories with her, Tavia, and Karl. May the memories of Clarice always be bright. Sending love, Shannon Rawley
Kelly Anthony (Zettergren)
May 4, 2016
Dear Karl, Tavia and Family,
Although I moved from IL 22 years ago, the bond with your family has not left my heart. Being your neighbor for all of my childhood was awesome! I have so many memories that I will cherish forever. Clarice was a special person and as I think of her I smile as the tears run down my face as she was just one of the people that inspire me and so many others with her contagious smile and laugh. She along with all of you are considered extended family in my eyes and the loss of such a special person is hard to believe. I will continue to pray for all of you that you find peace and know that an angel is watching over all of you!
Love,
Kelly Anthony (Zettergren)
May 4, 2016
Karl, Tavia, and familes,
We just heard of Claire's passing, and know that the joy just got sucked out of a lot of lives. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she was awesome to be around. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. She is definitely gone too soon, but no one maximized each day like she did....Ike and Peggy Liker, Canton IL
Russsell Hucek
May 3, 2016
I am so sorry to learn about the passing of Clarice. We grew up in the same neighborhood on the west side of Joliet. Both of us attended St. Patrick Grade School and Providence High School together. She was a wonderful person. Rest in Peaces, Clarice.
May 2, 2016
Karl & Tavia,
May God give you comfort at this sad time in your life.
Clare,
Thanks for being a wonderful, devoted friend. I will cherish all the fun times we shared. I will miss talking and seeing you. Your uplifting personality was very special. May you rest with The Lord.
Love,
Carol Matison
Fioyd woods
May 2, 2016
You have our deep and heartfelt sympathy. I will never forget you Karl for what you did for me when you was my supervisor.
Floyd "woody" Woods and family
May 2, 2016
You have our deep and heartfelt sympathy. I will never forget you Karl for what you did for me when you was my supervisor.
Floyd "woody" Woods and family
Glenn and Judy Steed
May 2, 2016
Dear Kofoid Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you bid a fond farewell to this most extraordinary lady. May pleasant memories eventually replace your immense heartache, and may you experience solace - and lasting peace - as you adjust to her absence in your lives.
Sincerely, Glenn and Judy Steed
Linda Pollock
May 1, 2016
I am so sadden to hear that this wonderful lady has passed .Clarice was such a sweet beautiful women .that I will always remember she will be dearly missed ! May the Angels look over you my sweet lady !
May 1, 2016
Karl & Family
We are o sorry to hear of the passing orf Clarice. My prayers are with you. She was such a funny & wonderful person. Jim & I were just talking about the to of you, and how much we cared about you.
Clarice treated me so kindly like she knew me her whole life. Lots of fun memories, Weddings, Boating & Christmas parties. God Bless You!
Love
George & Jim Rakar
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Love
George & Jim Rakar
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Julia Pucel
May 1, 2016
Karl we extend our deepest sympathy on the loss of your wife and friend, Clarice. We didn't know Clarice for very long but enjoyed the time we spent playing cards at sheps and the time we spent enjoying the company of the two of you in Ft Myers.
May 1, 2016
R.I.P. beautiful lady.
Anne and Bob
Chrissy Wellner
April 30, 2016
Dear Tavia and Karl when I heard about aunt clar I was very sad and I no what your going through hopefully some day we can talk like we used to Abbey and I miss u very much Love Chrissy and Abbey please call some day
April 30, 2016
Our world is a better place knowing Claire!! She was a beautiful , kind generous person and we will miss her. Our deepest sympathy to Karl and his whole family, God has a special Angel! Karen and Tom Simon
April 30, 2016
Clarice no one has ever touched as many lives as you have dear friend .Thanks for the memories.You will be missed but never forgotten.My deepest sympathy.
Noreen
April 30, 2016
CLARICE RECIPE
FOR
FRIENDSHIP
TAKE: 100 STRANGERS
ADD: 1 CLARICE
LET: MINGEL 1 TO 2 HOURS
EQUALS: 101 LIFELONG FRIENDS
Your kitchen a bit disorganized was always full of good food,good friends love and joy.I will deeply miss you.
Your cooking buddy
RINK
April 30, 2016
Karl I'm sorry to hear the loss of your wife Clarice she was a very kind and sweet person to everybody. You and her did everything together. She will be greatly missed. Again my sympathy. Take care
George Capista. Ft. Myers
April 30, 2016
Clarice no one has ever touched as many lives as you have dear friend. Thanks for all the wonderful memories .You will be missed but never forgotten .My deepest sympathy .
Noreen
April 30, 2016
CLARICE RECIPE
FOR
FRIENDSHIP
TAKE: 100 STRANGERS
ADD: 1 CLARICE
LET: MINGEL FOR 1 TO 2 HOURS
EQUALS: 101 LIFELONG FRIENDS
Your kitchen a bit disorganized was always full of good food, good friends love and joy. I will deeply miss you
your cooking buddy
RINK
April 30, 2016
To know Claire was to love Claire - thanks for being my friend.
Miss you,
Lukie
Maureen Glester-Beam
April 30, 2016
Clarice and I formed a very close friendship attended Providence High School in the mid-sixties. She made my life at school that much more enjoyable because she was in it. Good-bye dear friend.
Barb Lane
April 29, 2016
Clarice was a wonderful presence in my aunt's (Cookie's) life. She was such a good friend to her and a huge help to our family who all live out of state. When Cookie needed to move from her townhouse into assisted living and then into a nursing home, Clarice was there every step of the way, helping with furnishings, packing and unpacking and, once Cookie was settled in, visiting her and keeping us updated on how she was doing. On behalf of Cookie and my family, please accept my condolences.
April 29, 2016
Mrs. Kofoid was my home ec teacher at Hufford Jr, High,
Kristina Bloom
April 29, 2016
Tavia, Karl, and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Claire was a very special lady who I had the pleasure of knowing as both a neighbor and a student. I have many fond childhood memories of after school get-togethers with Tavia at the most beautifully decorated home in the neighborhood (especially for the holidays!) where all were welcome and a great time was always had. When I was a little older I was fortunate enough to have Claire as a Home Economics teacher for both Cooking and Sewing classes, and I still use her techniques and delicious recipes today. Claire was a tough act to follow and will be greatly missed by many.
My deepest sympathy,
Krissi (Olsen) Bloom
Kristina Bloom
April 29, 2016
Tavia, Karl, and family,
What a beautiful tribute, I was so sad to hear of Claire's passing. She was an incredible lady to know both as a neighbor and a teacher. I have many fond childhood memories of after school get-togethers and parties with Tavia in the most beautifully decorated home in the neighborhood, especially for every holiday. I was also lucky enough to have Claire as a Home Economics teacher for both Cooking and Sewing classes when I was a little older and I still use those skills and her recipes to this day! She was truly one of a kind and a tough act to follow.
My deepest sympathy,
Krissi (Olsen) Bloom
April 29, 2016
Wonderfully positive and inspiration woman who will be missed by all she came in contact with! xoxo
Natalie Vlna
Mike Literski
April 29, 2016
Our deepest sympathy to the Fofoid Family.Clarice was one of the "Great One's",me and Mona loved playing cards with her.We will miss her always.I know she will keep a place at the card table open for us.
Jennifer Auen
April 29, 2016
I remember after school gathering at Joliet West where she would teach the teachers some quick cooking skills. Clarice was always so much fun and you could count on her for a laugh if you were having a rough day at work. My husband met her for the first time at one of her Halloween Bashes, where we had tons of fun tossing toilet paper. I feel blessed to have known and worked with her.
God Bless!
Michelle Efatoski
April 29, 2016
I remember Mrs. Kofoid's energy and enthusiasm in her classroom at Hufford Jr. High circa 1990. She was a beautiful and kind person, a great teacher, and I loved her style! Some good memories from her class were making the small pillow Christmas wreath and making eggs in a nest. My deepest sympathy to her family.
April 29, 2016
Mrs. Kofoid was my Home Economics teacher at Hufford more than 20 years ago and I still remember what a fun class it was. My condolences to her family and friends.
April 29, 2016
Claire your the best. Our lives are better because of you. YOU'L be in our prayers, thanks for you.
Lukie and Paul
Carole Rubens
April 28, 2016
What a lovely lady.....with her sunshine smile. Full of life, fun & never ending energy. So dynamic & talented in all areas!! Your contagious love for life, family, & friends will be truly missed...love you...my thoughts & prayers are with you & your family.
Carole Rubens
Barbara Hen tach
April 28, 2016
Claire was a beautiful person and I will cherish all the good times that I shared with her and her sisters. May our Lord comfort her family and keep them close.
April 28, 2016
I met Clarice and Karl briefly this past January in Florida. Clarice came to my friends condo, we laughed and talked like old friends. Someone you don't forget once you met her.
So sorry for your loss.
Maureen B
Kellie Pastore
April 28, 2016
The loss of an always shining star! I will always remember the outrageous good times, with her and the girls. We will miss her smile and laughter.
Dawn (Bisping) Gersich
April 28, 2016
I still have the skeleton I made in her sewing class and make some of the recipes still. She was a great teacher that made class fun and educational. Hufgord c/o 89'
Carolyn (Riley) Dailey
April 28, 2016
I feel blessed to have known this beautiful girl. Her obituary was a most beautiful tribute - it was a wonderful summary of Clarice's well lived earthly life.
She lit up a room with her presence - and she made everyone she met feel like a million dollars.
I am keeping her family close to my heart.❤
Rest easy, my friend
Jack & lynda Andrews
April 28, 2016
DEAR CARL....PLEASE ACCEPT OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY IN THE LOSS OF CLARISE..MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,SHE WILL BEAN EXTRA ORDINAY ANGEL IN HEAVEN....
Christine Anderson
April 28, 2016
She was loved by many she was my teacher at hufford and West will be truly missed
April 28, 2016
Having taught with Clarice at West for many years, I always knew she was special. But, after reading her wonderful obituary and all of the special memories everyone has been writing, Clarice was definitely a one-of-a-kind person... an exceptional spouse, parent, grandparent, friend, co-worker, teacher, mentor, volunteer and neighbor. She has added so much to so many lives. We were all so blessed to have had Clarice touch our lives in so many ways. She will be forever missed. My sincere condolences to her family.
Barb Golden
Joliet West H. S.
Donna Kroll
April 28, 2016
Mrs. Kofoid was my son's guardian angel while he was at West. I will forever be grateful for her kindness to him.
Constance Kozikowski
April 28, 2016
Clarice's enchanting personality and brilliant smile was the sunlight that enhanced the sparkling colors of her family, friends and cohorts' rainbows that encompassed her life. Claire will be missed but remain a shining light in our memories. My deepest sympathy to her family.
Robert Kroll
April 28, 2016
My sincerest condolences to the Kofoid family. Mrs. Kofoid was without a doubt the most influencing teacher I have ever had or will ever have. She changed my life from the first day I met her in foods class at Joliet West. She was a joy to be around, even if you were in a bad mood or upset she would find a way to make you smile and brighten your day. I went through some personal struggles in high school and needless to say I literally would not be here today if it had not been for this wonderful amazing person. She made it a point to tell me that no matter what her class room would always be a safe space for me, no matter the time if I had to escape she would protect me. She also made it a point to push me and help make me a better person. She was the type of teacher you just wanted to inherently make proud of you, and she never had a problem showing her pride for her students, it practically beamed from her. She would always brag about us to other teachers. I can not say I will miss her because of how much she has influenced me and the major mark she has left on my life, she is still with me every day and will always be a part of who I am. I would not be who I am if it had not been for her. I can only hope that she knew how grateful I was for everything she did for me, she gave me back a desire to live.
Farewell Mrs. Kofoid, my dear friend, I know you'll be looking over us all as we continue to try and make you proud.
Mike and Sharon barnard
April 28, 2016
Condolences to the kofoid family, carice was a joy to be around, may she rest in peace.
Lee Swank
April 28, 2016
I remember that big beautiful smile and her gracious personality as a student at Hufford Jr. High. She made JT a brighter place as well. God bless. Lee Swank
Larry and LInda Kubinski
April 28, 2016
Clarice was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all of us. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Our deepest sympathy to her family.
April 28, 2016
SUCH A WONDERFUL. LADY THAT LOVED ALL AND CARED EVEN MORE THAT ALL WERE SPECIAL.
I WORKED AT HUFFORD FOR MANY YEARS WITH HER. SPENT MANY PLANNING PERIODS CHATTING AND SNACKING.. TO THE FAMILY.. ''GOD BE WITH YOU ALL.''!!!
PAUL DUNCAN. (MR.D)
Lisa Morel Las
April 28, 2016
My deepest condolences to Clarice's family - I can't image the loss you must feel losing such a wonderful woman! She brought light and joy to all she touched and she made this world a better place.
Wade Schroder
April 28, 2016
From Three Rivers Yacht Club our deepest condolences. Our memories of her on the river will never dim only brighten with every thought of her.
julius & joyce forneris
April 28, 2016
To the Karl Kofoid Family
Our thougts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Please take solace in knowing Claire was a wonderful person who was loved by many. With warm thoughts
Babe and Joyce Forneris
Marge Mostyn
April 28, 2016
To Clarice's family and friends,
Her obituary is a beautiful truth of her life. I first met Clarice when she was decorating Tavia locker at 6:30 in the morning for her birthday, I think.. I next met her in a clown outfit in the hospital when she visited my aunt Bev Bertino. The last Clarice siting was at my Aunt Bev's wake, with her sidekick, Jan. They both appreciated the assistance Bev gave them at Hufford. And she loved them. Whenever she heard noise or laughter in the hall, she'd smile and say...."I think I hear Clarice."
Such beauty, such energy, and such excitement. Such sadness for all of you.
Prayers and warm thoughts.
Marge Mostyn
Mary Pat Barney
April 28, 2016
I worked with Clarice at Hufford and Joliet West! She was an excellent mentor and work partner! My condolences to her husband, Karl, and her children and grand children! Mary Pat Barney
Georgia McCullum
April 27, 2016
Mrs. Kofoid was a fun and loving teacher at Hufford. I stil have my index cards with recipes from class. Sending my condolences and prayers. Heaven has gained an Angel.
Georgia "Cookie" McCullum
Olivia Morgan
April 27, 2016
This lady.....was truly a teacher. I know because I am still living her lessons.
Lorenzo Zuniga
April 27, 2016
My condolences to the family. Mrs. Kofoid was the best home economics teacher. Her passion to teach her students was top notch. Thanks for teaching me how to sew and introducing me to apple slices and marshmellow fluff!
Your student,
Heidi Keers
April 27, 2016
Mrs. Kofoid was my favorite teacher during my years at Joliet West. I was fortunate to know her very well beyond the classroom. She was one of those teachers that continued to have a profound effect on me even after graduation. Very sorry for your loss she was an amazing lady.
Mary Crosetto-Moschini
April 27, 2016
What a beautiful tribute to a lady whose star has always shined so brightly. Every word written summed up the essence of who she truly was. It was a privilege being able to call her my friend. Growing up across the street from the Kofoid Family allowed me to be a part of their lives. Upon hearing that she had passed, I've been flooded with memories. (Way to many to write them all down but I would like to share a few.) I loved that every time I babysat Tavia that Clarice always had to walk me across the street. (On a few occasions, I had to watch that she then made it back home.) She did love the holidays, my favorite holiday memory is when the cat scaled the tree. Clarice called me to come help. The tree ended up on its side taking up most of the living room, lights were tangled, ornaments everywhere and then lets not forget that she sprayed the tree with snow. I owe my career to her. After spending a day in her classroom, I then decided that I wanted to be a Home Economics Teacher. I will always remember her for the special person she was in my life. I know that she is up in heaven with my dad and they are laughing and smiling. And of course, they are planning a party. Karl, Tavia, Laura, Andy and Doug - She was the best of the best.
Tyrika Larkin
April 27, 2016
She was a great teacher. May she rest in peace.
Joliet West Student
Doniel Bass
April 27, 2016
She was my one of my teachers at Joliet West high school. She always had a smile and a kind word and I will always remember her. God bless her family in this hard time.
Kimberly Lewis
April 27, 2016
May she rest in peace, the nicest teacher I had!!! Full of joy and laughter!!! She will be missed
Student Hufford
Kimberly Lewis
Octavia Summlion
April 27, 2016
I am deeply sorry for your loss.. Mrs Kofoid was one of my favorite teachers from west such great energy she will be missed alot and was loved by many
Mary Therese Egizio
April 27, 2016
My Deepest Sympathy to Clarice's family and friends. Having only known her from Bicentennial Park and Vill Franciscan I can only attest to her love for all and generous gift of her time and talents to all she came in contact with.
May God Bless her with a high place in His kingdom and may He bless you all with peace and sure knowledge of His love for you all as you walk this path home without her.
Tammy Platt
April 27, 2016
So sad to read of Mrs Kofoid's passing. She was a wonderful teacher at Huffird Jr High. So fun, always smiling and teaching us our kitchen skills. Her obituary outlines what a beautiful person she was. May her wonderful memories bring comfort to your family in the days ahead.
Nicole Markelz-Jaramillo
April 27, 2016
The Markelz Family sends our sympathy to the Kofoids. Clarice was so kind to our mother Barb Markelz, and put a smile on her face many times with her visits and special treats she brought by over the years she was alive and battling cancer. She will be in our prayers
Nicole Markelz-Jaramillo
April 27, 2016
Kofoid Family, The Markelz Family sends their condolences. I remember your mother cheering up our mom Barb Markelz while she went through her hospice journey....bringing shamrock shakes by every St. Patricks day. You will be in our prayers.
April 27, 2016
TAVIA AND FAMILY:
MY SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. YOUR MOM WAS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON. SHE WILL BE MISSED BUT ALSO REMEMBERED FOR ALL SHE ACHIVED. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
LOVE,
CONNIE DOWNING
Diana Missig
April 27, 2016
My sincere condolences to the Kofoid family. Clarice was a one in a million person. I met her thru Cookie in celebration of her 100 birthday. What a strong spirit. She was a great decorator at home and in person on Witches Night Out. She will be dearly missed.
Prudence Greenwood
April 27, 2016
Tavia and Karl, I am devastated to hear the news. It's been a pleasure having Claire as part of my life all these years, thank you for sharing her. She will be remembered for her flair and laugh. I wish I could be with you on Saturday but have a class out of town, my mother also shares her sympathy.my love to you all...Prudence (Pru)
Paula Pemble
April 27, 2016
Karl, Tavia and Family,
I am sorry for the loss of such a beautiful and wonderful person. You know Jim-Bob was there to walk her through those gates ( most likely to keep her from re-decorating them ) and to help her find her way around heaven. I hope those two can stay out of trouble (we all knew how much trouble those two got into)
The loss of such an amazing person will affect us all, Karl, if I can help you in any way please let me know. Love to the family Paula P.
Deborah and Marty Hrpcha
April 27, 2016
Karl,Tavia and family,
Clairice will be forever in our hearts. Clair had a "marvelous " flair for life that was infectious.She will be deeply missed. May the love of friends and family carry you. With love and sympathy.
Debbie and Marty Hrpcha
Prudence Greenwood
April 27, 2016
Tavia and Karl, I am devastated to hear the news. It's been a pleasure having Claire as part of my life all these years, thank you for sharing her. She will be remembered for her flair and laugh. I wish I could be with you on Saturday but have a class out of town, my mother also shares her sympathy.my love to you all...Prudence (Pru)
April 27, 2016
My kids enjoyed her enthusiastic approach in her classroom many years ago and I enjoyed her in my Card Making Classroom in these last two years. She was committed to the continuation of her education in any form. Karl, she was a treasure.
May God Bless you all as you continue life without her, remembering the LEGACY of true living she gave.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Schmitz
(Mrs. Harold Schmitz)
Becky Locke-Barnes
April 27, 2016
I loved Mrs Kofoid ! She was beautiful inside and out !!
Kim Harris-Panozzo
April 27, 2016
Home Economics at Hufford Jr. High 1984.....she showed me how fun it was to be in the kitchen. Thank you!
April 27, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. She was an amazing teacher I had at Hufford. I still make the Cinnamon twist we made in class and now my kids make them.
Michele Lemke-Mata
Minooka,Il
Terry Schladenhauffen
April 27, 2016
She is an amazing woman who was always gregarious with a beautiful smile, contagious laughter...you could hear it from across the street... and always a "hello" when she'd see me. She always made it a point to share compliments about our yard and always made me feel 'special'. And, lets not forget her wardrobe was always stupendous in every situation. I'm sorry she went to Heaven way too early. Thanks for the beautiful memories of your mom...now I even know her more! May you feel her spirit around you daily. [hugs]
Gerri & Jim Chaplin
April 27, 2016
Clarice has been and will continue to be an important part of our lives. My husband has known Clarice since childhood. Her parents helped make college possible for him by providing employment and he will be forever grateful. They were college friends at Joliet Junior College and Butler University.
Clarice and her dear friend, Linda Padilla, brought my husband and I together on a blind date and continued to be our friend ever since. We have enjoyed those parties and visiting on the boat, the river, Florida and their wonderful home. She was always an amazing hostess and made everyone feel welcome. You could not know Clarice without being amazed at her ultimate kindness. She was always willing to help anyone who needed her help. Her energy and enthusiasm was boundless. It is so sad that she was taken from us so soon. She will remain in our hearts forever. All of Clarice's friends will be here for Karl and her wonderful family as they cope with this loss. We hope that the wonderful memories of all the tender and fun moments will bring them comfort in the future.
Karen Terlep
April 27, 2016
We are sorry for the loss of Clarice. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. We will remember Clarie's smile and laughter.
Joseph Giacchino
April 27, 2016
Kofoid Family,
I am so saddened by this loss.Clarice did everything with great enthusiasm and made the world and those around her better each and every day.
She will be missed.
I offer prayers and thoughts for each of you.
Respectfully Yours,
Joe Giacchino
April 27, 2016
Kofoid Family,
Wow a wonderful person is gone!! I offer prayers and thank you for sharing Clarice with those of us at Presence Villa Franciscan.The world was always a better place when Clarice was around.
Respectfully yours,
Joe Giacchino
Laurie james
April 27, 2016
Karl, Tavia, and family
I am so deeply sadden to hear of Clarice's passing. She was a great neighbor always had a smile on her face, and her waiving from her car or yelling stop over. She was a beautiful person inside and out. I will miss her, heaven just received an angel and a fun one. GOD BLESS
John and Laurie James
Marge Duff
April 27, 2016
When I hear the name, Clarice Kofoid, I think: full of life, life of the party, cheerful, always a smile on her face. She brought that sparkle to every place she went. I knew her from our days at Hufford and also from Waterway Daze. If Clarice was there, you knew it would be fun! Her light shined brightly, indeed. My sincere condolences to her family.
Valerie Viano
April 27, 2016
Dear Kofoid Family-
This has to be the most AMAZING tribute I have ever read! I fondly remember Mrs. Kofoid from Hufford Jr. High. She taught us how to make eggs in a nest and of course that delicious french salad dressing. I was lucky enough to run into her while blueberry picking many years ago. She was as beautiful as ever and her smile was so contagious. As I read her obituary, I laughed and cried because I can see her doing all of these things. Your family was truly blessed to have her in your lives. My deepest heartfelt sympathies go out to you all. May her shining example of a life well lived be a direct reflection of how we all should live each and every day!
Pat Lovati
April 27, 2016
When we moved across the street from Karl & Clarice in 2002, we were outside unloading the truck and Clarice came over, introduced herself and gave us a big "Welcome to the neighborhood"! We've been friends ever since. "Thank You" Claire for always making me smile!
Beth Feucht
April 27, 2016
Although it has been many years since I last saw her at Joliet West High School, I can still see Clarice's bright smile and hear her wonderful laughter. She was so full of life, which makes it is difficult to imagine that she is no longer here. I know those who loved her will miss her dearly. As a side note, oh, how I loved her lemon cakes!
LORELEI BOYER
April 27, 2016
KARL AND FAMILY SO SORRY TO READ OF CLARICES PASSING WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER OUR TRIPS FOR NEW YEARS EVE. SHE WAS ALWAYS SO FULL OF LIFE.GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU. LORELEI
Jenae Prince
April 27, 2016
Beautiful inside and out! Your joyful smile will always be remembered!
Debbie Nuetzmann Jesson
April 27, 2016
She will always be remembered for her kindness, and her Big Beautiful Smile. A Beautiful person with a Big heart!
She will be missed.
Sandy Pendola
April 27, 2016
What a privilege to be your friend ...You're the BEST...I've know you're helping God now ...You've made such a difference in so many lives...The brightest SPARKLE I've ever seen ..Thank you ...MUCH LOVE always ...Sandy ..
Showing 1 - 99 of 99 results
Make a Donation
in Clarice Kofoid's name
Memorial Events
for Clarice Kofoid
Apr
30
Celebration of Life
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home2320 Black Road, Joliet, IL 60435
How to support Clarice's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Clarice Kofoid's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
