Eunice (Claus) Kelly

Corvallis - Eunice Claus Kelly, 93 of Corvallis fell Asleep in the arms of Jesus July 23, 2016.

Eunice was born in St. Louis, Missouri September 21, 1922, the daughter of Rev. Herbert and Estelle Claus. She was baptized on 9-24-22 and confirmed on 4-15-35. Eunice spent her early years in suburban St. Louis where her father was the pastor of Zion Lutheran Church. Life centered around the church and the church family. Nurtured by wise and devout parents and supported by honest, humble, hardworking friends and mentors, Eunice embodied solid traditional values that endured for a lifetime and became the hallmark of her character. She was blessed with a fine mind, an inquiring nature, and a drive to excellence. She was an eager student and an apt learner. Her academic achievements include: Valedictorian of J.M. Vogt High School; Ranking graduate St. Louis Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing; Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude, St. Louis University; Master of Public Health, Distinguished Scholar, University of Minnesota; Certificate of Advanced Study Human Development, University of Chicago; Sigma Theta Tau, National Society for Nurses.

Involved in professional nursing for forty five prestigious years, Eunice served for thirty years in the dual role of Director of Nursing for the DuPage County Illinois Health Department and Executive Director of the DuPage County Community Nursing Service (Home Health). This combined public-private partnership, which she developed and implemented, was innovative and recognized as a model at the time. During these years, she also held an appointment as assistant professor at the University of Illinois College of Nursing. She was an active and moving member of the American Nurses Association, National League for Nursing, National Home Health Association and a fellow of the American Public Health Association. During the 1960's, she served as chairperson of the Public Health Section of the Illinois Study Commission on Nursing. In 1970, she was a delegate to the White House Conference on Aging. A highlight was her private meeting with President Nixon in the Oval Office.

An articulate advocate of quality health care, Eunice authored numerous papers and articles for professional publications. She was recognized for innovative planning and delivery of health services, participating actively in the unsnarling of early glitches in the coverage of Home Health by Medicare. Following a move to Montana in 1977, she served for eight years as consultant with the Montana Department of Health.

 In 1957, Eunice married John J. (Jack) Kelly and found fulfillment as faithful wife, devoted mother, and dedicated homemaker. Two daughters, Delia Kathleen and Laurel Colleen, joined Jack's older daughters Karen and Eileen. Eunice enjoyed her family, her home, antiques, handcrafts, reading, and professional writing. She was a lover of animals and all of nature, especially the beauty of her adopted Montana mountain land. Her overriding delight was her relationship with a gracious and forgiving God whose hand she recognized in all her endeavors and accomplishments. Eunice was humbly thankful for her rich traditional heritage and for the steadying influence of loving and faithful parents, wise mentors, and loyal friends of a lifetime. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Hamilton, Montana.

Preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jack (2005), and her sister Audrey Claus (2010).

She is survived by her daughters: Karen Clark, Heber Springs, Arkansas; Eileen Kelly, West Chicago, Illinois; Delia Kelly, Stevensville, MT; Laurel Kelly, Corvallis, MT; Sister Gwendolyn (Dr. Robert) Schopp, Williamsville, N.Y.; Sister-in-law, Colleen Thomas, Victor, MT; Grandson Shane Clark, Heber Springs, Arkansas; Nieces and nephews.

We remember our mother, sister, and friend for her humility, integrity, and wise counsel.  Eunice embraced life. Her unwavering faith and love of family was an inspiration to all. Though her presence will be missed, we will be supported by the marks of her love and devotion as we await a joyful reunion in heaven.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 2nd at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor Glenn Merritt officiating.  Interment will follow at Corvallis Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Claus Memorial Fund at Grace Lutheran Church.   Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com