September 13, 1930 – December 5, 2023
Sister Claire Weber (Margaret Claire) died at the Teresian House on December 5, 2023, at the age of 90. The daughter of Clarence Weber and Linda Archambault Weber. Born in Utica, New York, she graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School and in 1948 entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, with whom she served for 75 years. She prepared for her lifelong ministry in business teaching and administration at the College of Saint Rose, BS (1962) and MA (1965) earning BS and MA degrees in business.
From 1952 – 1959, Sister Claire taught business in Albany Diocesan high schools and was then appointed Assistant Business Manager at the College of Saint Rose. Sister next ministered in teaching and administrative posts in Syracuse and Albany Diocesan schools, including thirteen years as Business Manager of Rome, New York, Catholic Schools. From 2002 until her retirement in 2022, Sister Claire served her community in the Business Office at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Latham.
Sister Claire loved teaching and was acclaimed as an excellent teacher, always prepared, organized and professional. In 2002 she received the “Rome Catholic Schools Teacher Award.” Claire said she consciously transformed what others might call each day’s work into a sacramental ministry, praying daily for each person whose name she read on her class and office lists.
While serving in Rome, New York, Sister Claire celebrated her 50th Jubilee. Asked about religious life’s many changes, she answered, “It’s a life of faith – The Lord can see around corners that we can’t.” A life of faith – that was Sister Claire’s mantra when faced with any challenge. When asked about turning 70, Sister wrote, “Praise the Lord and pass the cake and ice cream.” Sister Claire’s life, a balance of her deep faith and her joyful spirit, enriched all she served.
Sister Claire was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her only sibling, Rev. Jerome Weber. She and Jerome bonded closely during their school days and remained close during their years of ministry and retirement. She is also survived by her loving religious community, especially her dearest friend, Sister Julie Eigo. Sister Claire’s wake will take place on Sunday, December 10th, from 2-4p.m. with Vespers at 4 at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Latham, New York. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, Dec. 11th at 11:00a.m.
Contributions in Sister Claire’s memory may be made to the Office of Mission Advancement, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, New York, 12110 or donate online.