JULY 20, 1918-MARCH 17, 2009

TANEYTOWN, Md. - Clara L. Bricker, 90, peacefully departed this life on Tuesday, March 17, 2009, at her residence.

Born July 20, 1918, in Taneytown, she was the daughter of the late William F. and Bernice R. Bricker.

She was preceded in death by her older brother, John, who died in 1987.

She was a graduate of Taneytown High School and received a bachelor of arts degree from Western Maryland College in 1939. Soon thereafter, she began her career as a teacher with the Prince George's County Public Schools. She taught typing, shorthand and office skills at Hyattsville High School, then at Northwestern High School in Hyattsville for several decades, after which she moved into administration.

During her working years, she was a member of several professional organizations, including Business and Professional Women. She was an avid duckpin bowler and bowled in a league for many years. She also traveled widely.

Upon her retirement, she returned to Taneytown and the house in which she grew up. She was a member of a local bridge circle and the Republican Women's Club for many years as well as a life member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her nephew, John Samuel Bricker Jr. and his wife, Carol, of Smithsburg, Md., as well as her great-niece, Kelly Ann Bricker of Berlin, Md.; and great-nephew, Kevin Andrew Bricker of Smithsburg.

To them she will always be their beloved "Auntie Ou," the person to whom family meant everything and who was always there for them no matter what. The Bricker family is what it is today due, in large part, to her love and support. Words haven't been created to express their gratitude or their sorrow at her passing.

Clara is also remembered by her longtime neighbor, Howard Welty, and former co-worker and dear friend, Kathleen Rehanek of Alachua, Fla..

There will be a memorial service Saturday, March 21, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Trinity Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the church at 38 W. Baltimore St., Taneytown, MD 21787 or to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.myersdurborawfh.com.

Arrangements are by Myers-Durboraw Funeral Home, Taneytown.