Claire Kasala, 88
Claire Kasala, 88, passed away Nov. 22, 2021, surrounded by friends and family. She was born in Devil's Lake, North Dakota, on March 15, 1933. Claire was the youngest child in the Kulawik family with two older brothers Don and Gene. Tragedy struck early in Claire's life. At the tender age of 12 her father, Eugene Kulawik, passed away unexpectedly from a kidney ailment. Despite this, her fondest memories included watching her father play semi-professional baseball in both the Minnesota and South Dakota minor leagues. Her mother, Lenore Kulawik then moved the family to Missoula where Claire attended Sentinel High School. Claire was selected to participate in the Miss Montana pageant upon graduation.
Claire attended the University of Montana where she graduated with a degree in economics, as well as a minor in home economics with a teaching certificate. She was an active participant in drama and was also a member of the Tri Delta sorority. Claire met the love of her life, Jerry Kasala, at the university and they spent the next 65 years faithfully beside one another through thick and thin. Upon being married, she taught school in Missoula, Lewistown, Great Falls and Kalispell. She was also employed as a social worker. Together they had five children, all of whom were given the remarkable gift of a higher education.
Claire was a natural beauty. With stunning blue eyes and a gracious smile people naturally gravitated toward her. She had a fashion sense second to none. Claire was class, no two ways about it. If those traits weren't enough, her warm personality and ability to captivate an entire room with her storytelling ability certainly was. Everywhere she went, people knew Claire. At times, one would have sworn that she must be a celebrity. She was intelligent in a way that few understood. Much like a great chess player, she was always at least one move ahead.
Nothing brought Claire greater joy than spending time with her cherished grandchildren. Time spent at “Jerry and Claire's” consisted of five-star hospitality in the form of home cooked meals, joyous laughter, and treats from Dairy Queen. Never once did a birthday or holiday slip by without celebration and Claire’s skillfully crafted German chocolate cake that will forever be renowned by those fortunate enough to devour a piece.
Throughout the years Claire developed an enduring friendship with Dr. Tobin Hoppes, whom she held in the highest regard on both a personal and professional level. Claire was quick to point out to any other medical professional that Dr. Hoppes was “her” doctor and any care must first be approved by him. Likewise, attorney Randy Schwickert was the only legal counsel that Claire would trust and she was always thankful for his unfaltering friendship and guidance in times of need.
In her later years, Claire visited Arizona during the wintertime, soaking up the sun and immersing herself in new social endeavors while staying with her daughter Kim and son-in-law Vince. She could frequently be found humming softly to the “King of Rock and Roll” Elvis Presley and often spoke about wanting to visit Graceland. Claire Kasala embraced life. She made many sacrifices for her loved ones, but harbored no regrets. She was always steadfast in her convictions and her word was her bond. Everyone recognized her bright smile and sparkling blue eyes, but it was her heart of gold that brought endless joy to all who knew her. Much like the old Frank Sinatra tune “My Way,” Claire lived a life that was full; she traveled each and every highway, and more, much more, she did it her way; earning her golden ticket to Graceland.
Claire was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry, by two years and a day. Claire is survived by her brother Don (Kulawik), daughters Linda (Fredenberg), Kim (DePinto), Sandy and Vicky, son Jerry Jr., grandsons Brian and Kurt (Fredenberg), granddaughters Gracie and Madison, and great-granddaughter Carmen (Fredenberg).