Clara McGee

Clara Mae “Claire” McGee passed away peacefully at her home in Gig Harbor on October 11, 2026, at the age of 98.

Claire was born on February 15, 1928, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Hilda (Meseberg) and William Kiehnau. After graduating from high school, she married and welcomed her son, Kelly. Shortly thereafter, Claire and Kelly moved to Seattle, where she was hired by Boeing as a draftsperson. It was there that she met and married Thomas McGee, a Boeing engineer. Claire later enrolled at the University of Washington, earning both her bachelor's degree and her teaching certificate. She and Tom celebrated the birth of their daughter, Jaye, on Valentine’s Day in 1961. Claire went on to teach high school math in the Kent School District for 30 years until her retirement in 1988.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom, and her son, Kelly. She is survived by her daughter, Jaye Lindeman, and her husband, Mark, of Gig Harbor; her brother, Karl Kiehnau of Belgium, Wisconsin; her nephew, Jon Kiehnau of Seattle; and many other nieces and nephews scattered across the country.

Claire deeply enjoyed her church activities, crafting, spending time with her neighbors, a good red wine, an occasional martini, and fresh Dungeness crab. A few years after Tom's passing, she felt ready to travel. With Kelly, Jaye, and Mark as her trusted guides and companions, she thoroughly enjoyed memorable trips to New Zealand, Ireland, and Italy.

Following Kelly’s passing in 2016, Claire, Jaye, and Mark made the mutual decision to combine households and move into Kelly’s large, beautiful home in Gig Harbor. After living for almost 50 years in her Burien home, it was a major transition, but she embraced it fully. Because of this move, she was able to live out the rest of her days in absolute comfort and safety at home. Early on, she walked Pip, the family dog, every single day, and all the neighbors came to know the sweet little lady with the little black dog. She made wonderful neighborhood friends with whom she crafted, chatted, and took long walks.

Claire’s nephew, Jon, retired to Seattle about 15 years ago and became a constant, welcome presence in her small family. She always looked forward to Jon’s visits and his ever-upbeat spirit. Jon’s partner, Michael Krueger, further augmented that warmth and happiness, becoming another cherished addition to the family circle.

A few years ago, after a long time apart, Claire’s brother Karl (Jon’s father) began coming to visit her every year. Karl is a talented coppersmith who creates beautiful things like copper trays, bracelets, ornaments, and wind vanes. Claire was equally creative, making beautiful, ornate fabric boxes. It was a true joy to see them together, catching up on family, sharing old and new stories, and bonding over their shared love of crafting. Karl is now her last living sibling.

Claire McGee lived a full, happy, and productive 98 years. She touched countless lives as a devoted mother, an inspiring high school teacher, a dedicated Lutheran Altar Guild member, and a talented crafter. She made an indelible impression on everyone she met, guided always by her strong, unwavering faith. She is now at peace with God.

Per Claire's wishes, there will be no formal service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite charity in Claire’s honor.