The Excelsior Standard, May 2, 2025

Clara Wickstrom

Clara Ann Wickstrom, 86, of Excelsior Springs, formerly of Hardin, passed away April 22, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City. Clara was born March 5, 1939, in Cameron, the daughter of William St. Clair and Eva Faye (Cudworth) De Walt. She was united in marriage to Dennis Eugene Wickstrom of Hardin on June 29, 1958. He preceded her in death on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

Survivors include one son, John Wickstrom of Excelsior Springs; two grandchildren, Amanda Claire Wickstrom and Charlie Wickstrom of Laurel, Md.; two sisters, Liz Streeter of Smithville and Mary Haddock of Gower; one brother, Glen Sloan of Cameron; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and five brothers, Raymond, Paul, Donnie, Joe and Jim Sloan.

Clara was raised and educated in Richmond, graduating with the Richmond High School class of 1957.

She worked at Ray-Carroll Co-op and John Deere in Richmond before retiring from Hallmark.

Clara had a lifelong love for gardening and canning, and she especially enjoyed growing beautiful flowers. Gifted musically from a young age, she played both the guitar and piano, and often sang at family reunions, get-togethers and picnics in the park, where her voice and spirit brought joy to many.

She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and was lovingly known as the greatest sister anyone could ask for. To know Clara was truly to love her.

After retirement, she and her husband embraced their love of travel and enjoyed many adventures together.

Clara was a proud member of the Allen, Morton, Watkins Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and Chapter CR of P.E.O. in Hardin.

She was of the Christian faith. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Samaritans Purse. Memorial contributions can be dropped off or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.; Richmond-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation and funeral services were scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. and services following at 3. Burial was to be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Clara at www.thurmanfuneralhome. com.