After a lengthy battle with Multiple Sclerosis Claire Virginia Lotz (Powers) died on August 9, 2019 in Federal Way, WA at the age of 55. She leaves behind her husband, Andrew Lotz; her daughters, Chelsea and Jessica Lotz; and her son, James Louck.
Claire was born on February 19, 1964 in Stanton, California to Marie Claire Niffenegger (Miŕon) and Ervin Powers. She grew up in a large, loving family with four sisters and three brothers. She met her husband of 27 years, Andrew, in the small mountain town of Wrightwood, California. The couple met as she was working at the Wrightwood Country Diner and him at Mountain High Ski Area. The couple raised 3 children in their home. Her children remember her as a kind and supportive mother who encouraged them to pursue their goals. She lived in many states including California, Andover, Kansas, and finally Federal Way, Washington.
Claire is survived by her husband and children, as well as her sisters Tracy Cooper and Vicky Lambert; her brothers, Michael Kelly and Roger Powers; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, sisters; Jeannie Powers and Debbie Brier-Kelly, as well as her brother Gary Powers.
She always had a smile on her face. Claire enjoyed hiking mountains, skiing slopes, taking long walks, spending time in the garden, and her daily cup of coffee. She was always one to seize each day, even after her diagnosis. She remained a brave, iron-willed woman throughout her life and inspired others around her to seek opportunities to accomplish what they thought they couldn’t.
A funeral is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on August 24th, 2019 at St.Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Federal Way, with a reception to follow at Verrazano’s Italian Restaurant from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Father Bill McKee will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Claire’s life. The family would especially like to thank Graciela Barojas and Judy Mulenga, Claire’s resident caretakers, for many years of excellent work and loving care. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
