Clara was born a hundred years ago, the much-loved ninth child of Heinrich and Maria Groening. She grew up on the farm in southern Manitoba. She became a Christian in her teens and clung to her faith in Jesus throughout her long life. At 20, she married the love of her life, Aaron Siemens. They soon began their family, which grew to include Pearl, Carol, Arlene, Andy, Philip and Debra. Clara worked hard to support her husband and children with cooking, cleaning, sewing, and office work, creating a home for them all. Clara and Aaron retired to Chemainus, B.C., in 1980, to enjoy their garden and their many grandchildren. This was followed by a move to Garden Park and Tabor Court in Abbotsford, B.C., where they joined Clearbrook MB Church. They returned to Vancouver Island in 2011, moving into the home of one of their children. Clara had many difficulties, not least of them being the loss of her beloved Aaron after 71 years of marriage, but she was also aware of her many blessings. With a youthful spirit, a sunny smile, and an encouraging word for everyone, she touched many lives. She had a zest for life and looked forward to each new day and the joys it would bring.
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