STURBRIDGE:  Claire (Riel) Servant, 83, of Park Circle, died Thursday, Sept, 13 in her home after an illness.

Her husband Jean “Butch” Servant died in 2003.

She leaves her 4 daughters; Sandy Bierkan and her husband Donald of Jupiter, FL; Janet Lee Blanco of Concord; Nancy DeVillez and her husband Stephen of Danielson, CT; Laurie Placella and her husband Michael of Sturbridge, 9 grandchildren; Bethany Lee Cruzen and her husband Joseph; Donald Birekan; Katey Ferra and her husband Kevin; Mark Bierkan and his wife Amy; Timothy Lee and his wife Jennifer; Sam DeVillez; Michael Placella; Gino Placella, Julia Blanco  and 2 great granddaughters Mikayla and Lilliana.

Claire was born in Worcester, the daughter of Roch and Roseanna (Blair) Riel and lived in the area many years. She graduated from North Brookfield High School. She worked for the American Optical Co. for many years.

She was a member of Notre Dame of the Blessed John Paul II parishes in Southbridge and belonged to St. Anne’s Solidarity of Notre Dame.

She enjoyed puzzles, bowling, reading and was a member of the Red Hats.

The biggest joys of her life were her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The family would like to give a special Thank You to Kate Martinek and Paula Wilber of Guardian Hospice, for their special care of Claire during a difficult time.  

Her funeral will be held on Monday, Sept. 17, with a procession forming at 9:00AM from the Belanger-Bullard Funeral Home, 51 Marcy St, Southbridge, and a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00AM in Notre Dame Church, 446 Main St, Southbridge.

Calling hours are 5:00PM to 7:00PM Sunday, Sept. 16, in the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Guardian Hospice, 173 North Main St, North Brookfield, MA. 01535