CLAIRE LADISH June 7, 1943 – May 8, 2022
Claire Ladish, born June 7, 1943, passed away surrounded by her immediate family May 8, 2022. She was 78 years old.
Claire was born in Central Falls, Rhode Island to parents Charles August Prairie and Estelle Prairie (née Guillette). She was the youngest of 7 children.
Claire was married to Joseph Ladish June 6, 1964 and the two raised their family in New Haven, Connecticut before moving to Los Alamos, New Mexico in 1974.
Throughout her life Claire was a friend to all and touched all she met with her motherly wisdom, deep love, incredible care and sharp humor. Claire enjoyed tennis, crafting, biking, walking and skiing. She attained an Associates Degree from the University of New Mexico branch in Los Alamos and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Initially working as a teacher’s aid in the Los Alamos Schools Special Ed program, she later went on to work at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico ending her career there as the Group Secretary of T-12.
During her retirement Claire enjoyed traveling to see her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren taking trips to Europe, and spending quiet moments with her husband of 57 years on their home patio listening to the birds and wildlife surrounding their backyard. Claire will be remembered for many things, not the least of which is how she bravely fought a 10-year battle with myelodysplastic syndrome with grace, dignity and determination.
Claire is survived by her husband Joseph Ladish, her children Christine and Matthew Ladish, her brother George Prairie, 11 nieces and nephews, multiple great nieces and nephews, 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and her beloved dog Buttons.
Her family is grateful for the many amazing doctors and nurses who cared for her and extended her precious life to be shared with her friends and family. In particular they are grateful to the staff at M D Anderson Cancer Center in Texas, Los Alamos Medical Center in New Mexico, and Christus Saint Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Claire lived her life to its absolute fullest in every regard. As we remember her and how she chose to live her life, may we all honor her with how we choose to live ours.
The family will plan future services at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Los Alamos, NM and Saint Matthews church in Central Falls, RI. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the Christian Concern Committee of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Los Alamos.
