Obituaries

October 14, 1960 to Friday, June 19

FRANCESVILLE - Clara Marie Gentry, 59, of Medaryville (formerly of Merrillville) passed away peacefully at 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 19, at Franciscan Health Hospital East in Lafayette, with her husband by her side.

She was born Oct. 14, 1960, in Hammond to the late George F. and Mary L. Spanier Lair. She grew up in Hammond where she met her husband, Michael G. Gentry. They were married Jan. 9, 1978, at Cedar Lake. He survives.

She is also survived by:
Kristie M. (Scott) Wellestat, Crown Point, Daughter
Michelle L. (John) Pena, DeMotte, Daughter
Audrey Wellestat, Granddaughter
Lauren Wellestat, Granddaughter
Cora Pena, Granddaughter
Jessa Pena, Granddaughter
Donald Lair, Hammond, IN Brother
Ronald Lair, Hammond, IN Brother
Several Nieces and Nephews
Dorothy (Ray) Ballenger, Cousin

Preceded in death by:
Laura Lair Bigger, Niece

Mrs. Gentry worked at Calumet Auto Recyclers in Hammond for many years before becoming the manager at Family Express in Medaryville. In 2007, she went to work for Metro Auto Recyclers in Valparaiso. She was a member of the Ladies of Harley Kankakee Valley Chapter in North Judson. She enjoyed the many bike trips taken with her husband and friends. She loved fishing, especially with the grandkids at the pond. She is remembered for her infectious smile, and as a kind-hearted woman who was always caring for others. Most of all, she was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. The family notes that “although she is no longer with us, her love will always be our guide.”

Visitation will be from 5 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville. A service will be at 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 24, at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville, with Pastor Mark Promnitz officiating. Burial will follow at the cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society or Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.