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Claire Riddell Obituary

Claire Dollahon Riddell, 69, of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away Sunday June 15th at home surrounded by loved ones.

Claire was born February 16, 1945, to Gilbert O, and Oris McBride Dollahon in Alexandria, LA. Soon, the family moved to Carlsbad, NM where she grew up painting, dancing and riding, eventually qualifying for the Olympic equestrian team. While attended NMSU, she met and married Robert Riddell and raised seven children. Claire had innumerable talents including cooking, art, pottery and saddle making, just to name a few. She was always doing something interesting, and tirelessly teaching her skills to others. Anyone that met her immediately adored her.

She was preceded in death by her father, son, Robert and survived by her husband, Bob Riddell, mother, Oris Dollahon, sisters, Elaine Niau (Ralph), Melissa Eyler (George), daughters, Jennifer Donner (Tony), Rebecca Armstrong (Luke), Sarah Riddell (Cody), Robin Avitia (Michael), sons, Michael Riddell (Jessica), Mark Riddell of the home, fourteen+ grandchildren, three great grandchildren, a niece and nephew.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that any donations be sent to Bob, to establish a trust fund for their son, Mark.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Jun. 18, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Claire Riddell

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Seiko Tran

June 26, 2014

Our sincere sympathy to the entire Riddell family. We love you and send all our love. We will miss Sister Riddell and have fond memories.

Rowie and Ron Welch

June 21, 2014

Ron and I send our love and prayers. Ron remembers her from CHS. They were fond memories. We chatted a few times in the Springs when we lived there. Love to the family and to Elaine and her family and Mrs. Dollahon and all the many others in such a wide family. We wish you all peace and wonderful memories. love and light

Lindsay Mapp

June 20, 2014

I am SO sorry for your family's loss.I haven't seen Claire in years,as it was when I would come over to the house w/ Sarah & hang out,when we were teenagers,but remember her smile,sweet heart,& kindess.Claire made/gave me a wonderful piece of pottery,that was a candle holder,& I used it all the time.Losing a parent is NOT easy,as I know from the loss of my dad...just try to stay strong,& make sure all your family is there for one another,no matter what,or how each may react differently.She will always be in all of our hearts!Love to you all.

Peggy Savage

June 19, 2014

It seems like every time I went to SAMs Club to shop and have lunch, I would run into Claire and Mark doing the same thing. I loved talking to Claire. No matter how she was feeling, she always wanted to know what was new in my life.. She was an incredible woman... Sweet, loving, kind hearted, not a mean bone in her body! I have to admit it will be a bit sad when I go to SAMs, not to look for her. I know that she is in a better place; looking over all those that she loved so much!

rebecca armstrong

June 19, 2014

Services Are At 11 With Viewing From 930 Till 1030. At The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints 8710 Lexington Dr The Corner Of Research Parkway In Briargate ColoradoSprings Then Monday We Will Have Her Service For Her Resting Place At Fort Logan In Denver At 1130

Luke Armstrong

June 19, 2014

To my favorite mother-in-law

liz Hampton

June 19, 2014

Claire was an amazing,kind and generous woman. I am fortunate to have some of her pottery that I love. She will be greatly missed!

June 18, 2014

"God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be.
So He put his arms around you and whispered "Come to Me."
A golden heart stopped beating
hard working hands now rest
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the best."
Rest in the Arms of the Lord Claire.
May all of the Riddell family find peace and comfort in Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Tricia Guidry

June 18, 2014

Claire was, in a word, a joy. Always patient, always kind: never complaining. She was very talented as well and her children share those talents.
She shared her life for 49 years with her much-loved Bob, and yet I am sure it was not enough. I am sorry for myself and those who loved her, but happy that she is now free from pain and the cares of this world.

Colleen Ryan

June 18, 2014

My sincere sympathy to you, Sarah, your family, and all who eill miss your beloved mother.

Kimberly Hogan

June 18, 2014

This was a most gracious and beautiful woman-inside and out! She always had a smile for us, no matter what was going on. I admired here greatly-and loved all her art work..I'll miss her. The world is a better place for her having been here..To Robin, Sarah and the rest of the family-Patrick and I are so very sorry.

AnneMarie Miller

June 18, 2014

Claire was such a beautiful soul. In all of my memories of her she was smiling and caring for her family. I will never forget her kindness and compassion. May she rest in peace.

Tracie Rogers

June 18, 2014

Mrs. Riddell was a wonderful woman and I always admired her ability to make friends with anyone. She was a warm, caring person - every time I saw her she had a smile on her face and a kind word. She will be greatly missed.

Jeanette Herbert

June 18, 2014

The care you gave to my family was so wonderful. We will miss your lovely smile.

Denise Darling

June 18, 2014

May you rest in peace with God. I only met you once but I know Sarah and Cody and all your friends and family adored you and you will be missed by many.

rebecca armstrong

June 18, 2014

mom you are the best mom that anybody could ever ask for I will love and miss you more than words can ever say please know that I will be the best daughter I can possibly be and I will see you with the Lord someday I love you mom

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