Clara Van Tassel

On March 16, 2026, Clara Boice Van Tassel, surrounded by loved ones at home, passed away peacefully from this Earth. She passed in the same way she lived- exactly how she wanted.

She leaves her broken-hearted children- Patricia Van Tassel, Stephen (Jean) Van Tassel, Bruce (Melissa) VanTassel, Katrina (Peter Haughie) Van Tassel, Sandra (Allan) Chabot, and her special nephew David and his wife Jen. Her cherished grandchildren- Justin (Sarah) VanTassel; Haley (Tommy) Johns; Tess Chabot; Thomas Haughie, and Faye Chabot were the apples of her eye. Her great-grandchildren-Payton, Charlotte, Giada, and Hudson provided her with so much joy during these last few years, and she always looked forward to new pictures being uploaded on the magic frame in the kitchen. She adored her many nieces, nephews, family members, friends, neighbors, and caregivers. She was predeceased by her loving husband of nearly 67 years, Ronald B Van Tassel, who passed August 23, 2025.

Born to Mary Jane Vosburgh Boice and Roy Boice, Sr on September 19, 1938, Clara Ann was the youngest of their five children – Roy Boice, Jr, Arthur, Harold, and Ruth, all of whom predeceased her. Earliest childhood pictures show that determined twinkle that she kept her entire life.

Clarie met her sweetheart Ronnie Van Tassel at Roeliff Jansen Central School, and graduated in 1956. After high school, and always with a heart of service, Clara attended Vassar Brothers School of Nursing and graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1959. Clara and Ron married on October 17, 1959, and together began a life adventure filled with love for each other, service to others, and the joy of creating and supporting community. She was a dutiful daughter, a loving wife, mother, aunt, and a caring neighbor. Whether someone needed a cup of coffee, a BB removed from his forehead, or their toenails cut, Clara was often called upon, and always ready and willing to help.

A lifetime resident of Ancram, Clara became a trusted source of history as President of the Roeliff Jansen Historical Society and Ancram Town Historian, serving for 30 years. For 87 years she was a member of St John’s Lutheran Church and served as Council Member and Eucharistic Minister. Remember those turkey dinners? And it was Clara who received the call for help when a pre-licensed driver ran the pastor’s car into the corner of the church during our fund-raising car wash.

She was keenly aware of the continuum of time and became a link from the past to the future. She avidly worked on genealogy of the Van Tassel and Boice families. She had lifelong friendships. She delighted in family dinners, gatherings, and reunions and was the tie that bound everyone together, passing on news from family to family, friend to friend. And, oh, her cranberry nut bread!

Clara enjoyed a lifetime of blessings and was so grateful for the fortunate life she lived. Many hours were spent on the front porch waving to neighbors and strangers alike. Her door was always open, and she was always ready for visits- the only reason to call ahead was to make certain she was home. Otherwise, stop by any time and all were welcome. During her last weeks, many people came to visit, and she was so thankful and comforted by the time shared. Through all the years, she was known to listen carefully, and then- be prepared- give her opinion and advice.

We grieve our loss, but we rest assured that Mom is now sitting with Dad on another porch, waving and ready to welcome us when our moment comes. Until then, rest peacefully Mom- we love you.

*************

Funeral and Celebration of Clara’s life will be held Sunday March 22nd at St John’s Lutheran Church in Ancram, NY. Family will receive loved ones, friends, and neighbors from 10:30-11:00AM; Funeral/Celebration at 11:00AM, with graveside ceremony immediately following. Arrangements have been entrusted to Peck & Peck Funeral home, Copake Falls, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Clara’s honor to The Ancram Fire Company, St John’s Lutheran Church, or Community Hospice.