She was born in Honolulu on April 4th, 1940, and spent her early years in the Punchbowl area attending both Lincoln Elementary and Stevenson Intermediate. She attended Punahou School for her high school years and graduated in the class of 1958. Her college years were at Colorado Women’s College in Denver, Colorado, majoring in merchandising. Upon graduating, she joined Liberty House Department Store and soon became the youngest department buyer in the history of the company.

In 1961 Claire married Larry Johnson also of Honolulu, and they have resided in Hawaii their entire life. Claire was the oldest of three daughters born to Walter and Mary Olsen. Her mother, Mary, is still living at the age of 100. Predeceasing her were her two sisters, Charlene Eveleth and Amelia Andrade. Surviving Claire is her husband of 58 years, Larry, and daughter Mari-Jo (Gunner), son Mark (Stephanie). Also, grandchildren Matthew (Chelsea), Nicole, Natalie, and Hunter.

Claire gave her time and talent to many organizations, including St. Francis Auxiliary, Hawaii Heart Association, The Contemporary Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art, The Garden Club of Honolulu, and Punahou School where she served on the Board of Trustees for 41 years. She was the fi rst woman in Punahou’s history to serve as Chair of the Board.

Claire Johnson loved her family and friends and had a way of making everyone feel special. She was always there with a helping hand, offering words of encouragement, being kind to everyone, and making her time count.

We will miss her dearly.