Mary Elizabeth Clarkin

Mary Elizabeth (Hofer) Clarkin was one of the most loved individuals of all time. She won the hearts of every person she met with a welcoming hug and a smile that quickly made you feel at ease. Mary had the uncanny ability to make each person feel that he or she was her absolute favorite; each individual was very special to her. Legions of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, and friends can attest to this fact. She always remembered birthdays with a card, wrote special notes to celebrate accomplishments, and provided quiet support when you faltered. A simple squeeze from her loving hands helped each of us through the difficult times. She was always there when you needed herno matter what. A pillow in Marys living room is embroidered with the saying "95 Years Loved." A postscript should be added that says "95 Years of Loving." Because that is what Mary didshe loved and accepted everyone, no matter what circumstance brought them together.
Mary passed peacefully in her home on March 5, 2021. She was born in Walnut, Kansas on October 8, 1925 to Joesph and Marguerite Hofer. She moved to Kansas City at the age of 18 to work at Commerce Bank and married Philip J. Clarkin on April 12, 1945. Mary and Phil had seven children. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Phil, three brothers, Bill, Joe, and Ray Hofer, and son-in-law Steve Painter.
Marys beautiful life will forever be cherished by her seven children, Larry (Gloria), Kathie (Wayne) Husted, Bill (Brenda), Phyllis Painter, Jean (Brent) Darnell, Paula (Guillermo) Diaz, and Joanne (Edgardo) Gonzales, thirteen grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, brother Jim (Loretta) Hofer, sister-in-law Bonnie Clarkin and many, many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Marys Roman Catholic faith and her family were the focus of her life. After Phils death, she became the secretary for Christ the King School until retiring at the age of seventy. She spent countless hours volunteering at the food pantry, preparing luncheons at the church, and praying for those in need. Most of all, she shared her love with her family. Marys fried chicken dinners and homemade pies were legendary, closely followed by her pot roast and lasagna. She loved cooking for a house full of family and friends and there was always room to squeeze in one more. She loved reading and solving crossword puzzles, sitting on her back porch, and working in her yard. Mary will be deeply missed by all, but the love she shared will live on.
. Rosary St. Thomas More Church

Tuesday, March 09, 2021

10:00 AM

11822 Holmes RoadKansas City, MO 64131
Directions Mass of Christian Burial St. Thomas More Church

Tuesday, March 09, 2021

10:30 AM

11822 Holmes RoadKansas City, MO 64131
Directions Interment St. Francis Cemetery

Tuesday, March 09, 2021

2:00 PM

St. Paul, Kansas
Directions