Clara Frances (Betz) Zeller

It is with great sadness that the family of Clara Zeller announces her peaceful passing on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, Alberta, at the remarkable age of 88.

   Clara was born in Langenburg, Saskatchewan, to Joseph and Annie (Née: Kirkhammer) Betz. She was the third of four sisters and grew up on a farm, where she developed a lifelong love of gardening and cooking—skills that would become central to her life and legacy.

   In 1956, Clara met the love of her life, Frank Zeller. They married and moved to the Crowsnest Pass, Alberta area, where they raised a family of six children. Clara worked for many years as bakery manager at the local IGA in Crowsnest Pass. Even after retirement, her famous homemade bread was a cherished treat among neighbours and friends. She also took great pride in maintaining her immaculate yard and garden.

   Clara lived a full and honest life as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She found joy in simple pleasures—working on puzzles, reading, watching curling and baseball, and playing lively card games of 31. Her warmth, generosity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Clara is lovingly remembered by her children: Debra (Ken) Pagnucco of Bellevue, AB, Beverly Walsh of Bellevue, AB, Warren (Michelle) Zeller of Lethbridge, AB, Cheryl (David) Oczkowski of Coleman, AB, Darrell (Debbie) Zeller of Pincher Creek, AB and Wayne (Olivia) Zeller of Osoyoos, BC.

   She also leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; as well as her sister Mary Yeske of Coleman, AB; brother-in-law John Zeller of Regina, SK; sisters-in-law Elaine Zeller of Grande Cache, AB, and Rita McAleer of Edmonton, AB; numerous nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

   Clara was predeceased by her beloved husband of 69 years, Frank Zeller; her parents; her sister Dorothy; and infant sister Catherine.

   The Zeller family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and staff at Chinook Regional Hospital and the Crowsnest Pass Health Centre for their compassionate care.

   In addition to a private graveside service, a Gathering of Family and Friends will begin at 2:00pm on Saturday, July 5, 2025 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Bellevue (2401 – 213 St., Bellevue, AB).  All are welcome to join us in celebrating Clara’s life.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Bellevue (PO Box 58 Bellevue, AB T0K 0C0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. 

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555

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