Obituary of Clara Elsie Packard

Clara Elsie Packard, 93, of Remus, died Friday, May 11, 2018 after a brief illness. She was born May 29, 1924 in Michigan Center, Jackson County, MI to James and Lorena Bendall. She married Ralph Packard on Sept. 18, 1944 in Remus.

Elsie was a long-time member of the New Hope United Methodist Church, and was active in The Mary Martha Circle, Bible study and other church groups. She volunteered extensively in retirement and served for many years as a poll worker in Mecosta County. 

She retired in 1986 after 35 years from Central Michigan Bank & Trust in Remus. She and Ralph enjoyed camping in Michigan and spending winters in Florida. Elsie was a beloved mother and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her son, Daniel in 1963, husband, Ralph in 1996, and daughter, Dorinda in 2007, as well as several sisters and brothers.

She is survived by her daughter Dolores (Robert) McFadden of Linden, MI, son-in-law Karl Wilson of Mecosta, MI, niece Linda Sterling of Mecosta, MI; sister Gladys Hatch of Concord, MI, brother Tom Bendall of Jackson, MI.; grandsons Alden (Diann) Wilson of St. Johns, MI, Ralph “Andy” (Stacy) Wilson of West Bloomfield, MI, Kyle (Kendra) Wilson of Halifax, PA, Adam (Veronica Mork) Wilson of Traverse City, MI and Clay (Andi) Wilson of North Pole, AK; 10 great-children and one great-great grandson.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 9, at New Hope UMC, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m.

Memorial contributions in memory of Elsie may be made to New Hope UMC, 7296 9 Mile Road, Mecosta, MI 49332.