Clara Roth Esselbach passed away on April 11, 2018 at her home in Mount Vernon, WA. Clara was born July 2, 1932 in Mott, North Dakota to Barbara Hatzenbuehler and Mike Gress who emigrated from Russia.

Clara attended Nursing School at Mary College in Bismarck, North Dakota earning her nursing diploma. After completing school, Clara returned to Mott where she met and married John Roth on February 23, 1954 at the St. Vincent Catholic Church. Shortly after, the couple moved to Washington State, eventually settling in Mount Vernon.

Clara began her nursing career at Rawley Hospital in Mount Vernon – eventually transferring to work at the new Skagit Valley hospital as a staff nurse. Over her 35 year career as a supervisor and Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services, Clara spearheaded innovative patient care practices. Clara was an avid golfer and an active member of Immaculate Conception Church and supporter of Immaculate Conception Regional School and Skagit Valley College.

After the passing of her husband John Roth, Clara married Clyde Esselbach on October 1999. Clara and Clyde enjoyed traveling and spending their winters in Indio, California.

Clara was preceded in death by her husbands' John Roth in 1991 and Clyde Esselbach in 2009. Clara is survived by her three children, daughters: Tye Ann Roth, Joey (Scott) Frost and her son Jeff Roth. Seven grandchildren, Kristen (Cory) Medeiros, Megan Simonseth, Bree' Frost, Jaimie Frost, Brandon (Stephanie) Frost, Adam Roth and Jacob Roth. Great grandchildren, Christian Frost, Lauren, Maya, Cole, and Spencer Medeiros, Ava Lovejoy, Elton Frost and numerous nieces, nephews and her beloved dog "Buddy."

Clara will be remembered for her generosity, sense of humor and her fearless attention toward challenging issues that most would not consider. A great woman who had such an impact on so many.

A time of viewing will take place on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm with a Vigil starting at 6:00pm at Hawthorne Funeral Home, 1825 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, WA.  A reception will follow the Vigil in the Hawthorne Reception Room.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at 12:15pm at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 215 N. 15th St., Mount Vernon, WA.

Remembrances may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church building fund or Skagit Valley Hospital.