Clara Deen

Clara B. Deen, 87, passed away at 7:40am on Monday, June 9, 2014, at Eunice C. Smith Nursing Home in Alton. She was born on December 20, 1926, in Foster Township the daughter of the Thomas and Susie (Cooperiter) Finch. She married Hessie E. Deen on June 30, 1946, in Alton and he preceded her in death on August 26, 2006. Survivors include one daughter: Judy Matteson – Clark and her husband: Rev. Stan of Moro, one son: Jerry Deen of Shipman, five grandchildren: Andrew Deen, Thomas Deen, James Matteson, David Matteson, Donnell Smith, nine great grandchildren, three sisters: Hope Bivens, Hortence Bertels, Delores Keele, and one brother: Jessie Finch. She was formerly employed as a clerk for the United States Postal Service for 35 years prior to her retirement. She was a member of Emmaus Lutheran Church in Dorsey. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister in infancy. In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Visitation will continue for 10am until time of funeral services at 11am on Thursday, June 12, 2014, at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Dorsey. Rev. Dr. George Gude will officiate. Burial will follow at Emmaus Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Emmaus Lutheran Church in Dorsey.