Clara Dillman

Clara, age 102, passed away Thursday, January 25, 2024 at The Meadows in Swift Current.

Clara was born in Prelate in 1921, the seventh child of Anton Materi and Margaretha Mardian.  She was raised on the family farm near Prelate and attended a country school.  At the age of 16  her mother passed away which was a significant event in her life.  When she left home she eventually went to work for Dr. Levson in Prelate which was a very positive experience for her and she had wonderful memories of this family.

In 1942 Clara married Anton (Tony) Dillman and moved to a farm at Lancer, Sk.  They raised seven children on the farm and also bought a house in the town of Lancer. To earn income while living in Lancer they built a barn, had milk cows, and sold milk and cream to about 25 – 30 customers.   They also shipped cream.

Mom taught herself to sew (including priest garments and bridesmaid dresses), crochet, and loved quilting and gardening.  Later she had a variety of jobs in Lancer including at the General Store, and cleaning at the Lancer Hotel, the Lancer Hall and at the Catholic Church.

Mom and Dad retired to Swift Current in 1982.  Mom continued to work part-time until 1986.  Socially she enjoyed playing bingo, cards, going to the casino, casino bus tours, and going for coffee with her friends.  Mom had an adventurous spirit, e.g. tried curling at age 82, riding a catamaran, and attending mud flings at Lancer Chokecherry Festival at the age of 98.  She loved to have fun!!!  Family was mom’s greatest joy.  She was an amazing mother – we were so blessed to have her for 102 years.

In her 90’s  Mom’s needs changed and she went into care at the Palliser Regional Care Centre, and eventually The Meadows.

Clara was predeceased by all her siblings (Peter, Louis, Katie, Franklin, Theresia, Leonard, Steve and Ceceilia), by her husband Tony and all his siblings, and by her sons-in-law Albert Geissler, Michael Wilkinson and Randy Flath. 

Clara is survived by her children:  Bill (Naida) Dillman, Marjorie Geissler, Shirley (Arnie) Riise, Eileen Wilkinson, Annette Flath, Jerome (Thess) Dillman,  Gerrard Dillman,  16 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 6 great, great grandchildren.

Our special thanks to The Meadows Staff – you were amazing!!!  She loved all of you and was very thankful for the care and attention she received.

Livestreaming is available at:  You Tube Account of CTR Parish

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clara Dillman, please visit our floral store.