Claire Christensen passed away on Saturday, February 11, 2023. Claire was a tenacious force in the world, the doggedness of her spirit matched by her deep reserves of thoughtfulness and compassion. It was no secret that she preferred dogs to people, rescuing and caring for them throughout her life. They were as much a part of her family as their human counterparts, and she believed it to be a divine mistake that dogs weren't made to live as long as their people.

A story that epitomizes her obstinance, was when Claire was a young adult, still living with her family, she stole the distributor cap out of her father's station wagon. Her father had taken hers out of her Volkswagen to prevent her from going out, but Claire, not one to take "No," for an answer, was able to get her car started with his. After she returned home at a reasonable hour, she and her father never mentioned the incident to each other, both knowing who had won the battle of wills.

Claire's curious nature led her to pursue her education in the same way she pursued all things that were important to her: with determination. After acquiring her master's degree, her professional focus turned to environmental science, her intelligence and love of nature being complimentary to her career path.

She was generous, not only with her resources, but her time. She believed in tipping well, and serving her family and community. She was known to give gift cards to strangers who had helped her, and spent countless hours volunteering with organizations such as the Progressive Animal Welfare Society and Habitat for Humanity.

Claire had a wicked sense of humor, drove her vehicle like a Nascar racer, and loved fiercely. Those she is survived by find comfort in knowing that she has finally found the answers to all of her life's questions. She will be dearly missed.