Claire B. Gillam, 85
Claire Benson Gillam, 85, of Austin, died on Feb. 1, 2009 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester.
Claire was born Jan. 19, 1924 in Dodge Center, Minn. to Easton and Bessie (Ingalls) Benson. On June 20, 1946 she was united in marriage to Roger B. Gillam. He preceded her in death in October 1984. 
Claire taught elementary school for five years and she was one of the original owners of the Windfall. She was a talented artist, seeing the art in everyday life. Claire dearly loved her children and grandchildren. She was an avid golfer and bridge player. Her enthusiasm for life and love for people was felt by all generations.
Survivors include her children, Scott K. Gillam, Bristol, Conn., Mary and Ted Anderson, Willmar, Minn.; grandchildren, Sarah Gillam, Owen Gillam, Bristol, Jim and Rochelle Anderson, Maple Grove, Minn., Danny Anderson, Willmar, Minn., Catie Anderson, Burbank, Calif.; sister, Betty Wellman, Washington; sisters-in-law, Lillian Benson, Edina, Minn., Nancy Westbrook, Grand Junction, Colo.
In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by one brother and four sisters.
A memorial gathering will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6, 2009 at the First Congregational Church in the Wright Fellowship Hall with the Reverend Levering Reynolds, III officiating. Memorials are preferred to the Karl R. Potach Foundation. Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.