Lest We Forget
Sister Elaine Clark, CSJP (1921-2008)
Sister Elaine Clarke (Sister Josepha), a woman of deep faith who was a spiritual guide for many, died May 3, 2008 in Bellevue, Washington.
Born and raised in Vancouver, B.C., Elaine was the first child of Richard and Olive Clarke; she and her nine brothers and sisters have been close throughout their lives. Before being received as a Sister of St. Joseph of Peace in Bellingham in 1949, Elaine studied music at the University of Toronto and took courses in accounting and office management.
Between 1950 and 1964, Sister Elaine taught in Longview, Mercer Island and Port Angeles, WA, Ketchikan, AK, and in Trail, BC, where she also served as Principal. During this time, she earned a B.A. from Seattle University. Later she enjoyed using her administrative skills as a member of the Province Council and as Administrator for St. Theresa Residence.
In 1972, Sister Elaine began the ministry that was closest to her heart, helping others in their prayer and spiritual life. For ten years she served in parish ministry at St. Patrick Parish, Tacoma, then offered spiritual direction at the Still Point House of Prayer and served as a Chaplain in Eugene, OR, Snoqualmie, and Bellingham, WA. In her retirement years Sister Elaine volunteered in parish ministry at St. James Cathedral, served as Spiritual Director for the Legion of Mary, and offered spiritual counseling at St. Mary-on-the-Lake. She said, “I would like to be remembered as a true religious in service of others with the simplicity, gentleness and strength of my patron, St. Joseph.”
Sister Elaine was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Alvin and Joe Clarke. She is survived by her brothers and sisters Dick Clarke (Beryl); Alf (Anita); Wil (Betty); Len (Pat); Olive Bucher (John); Bill (Sonja) and Ella Jane, by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Her nephew Bob Clarke (Michael) has been her Saturday caller throughout her last illness. Beloved friends John Carmack, John Gooding, Pat Hogan and Jude Jackson have been constant supports.