Bertha A. (Newton) LaClaire passed peacefully with family on April 9, 2017. Bertha was born in Greenfield July 6, 1923. The Family is comforted to know that she is with the Lord.

Bertha had a full and rewarding life. She was an artist, writer, meticulous record keeper, and also a story teller and enjoyed music and her Bible.

She worked at Rugg's Lumber Mill as a young woman. She married Joseph N. LaClaire after World War II and together they raised a large family in the hills of Leverett.  She ran the Boys Club for several years where they carved bird carvings, built bird houses; she taught the girls sewing and baked apple pies for several occasions.  She baby-sat for anyone that needed assistance. She was a long-time member of Moores Corner Church. She managed LaClaire's General Store and was Postmaster of the Moores Corner Post Office for several years.

Bertha leaves her children and a brother Bill Newton of Erving: 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be Thursday (4-13-17) at 4 PM at Moores Corner Church with a reception to follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Moores Corner Church, Leverett, MA. 01054.

Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Kostanski Funeral Home.

Sympathy messages available at www.kostanskifuneralhome.com

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