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Obituary for Clarice Artrip Clarice Artrip, 83, of Turlock passed away at her home on Monday, February 24, 2020. Clarice was born on July 18, 1936 in Durant, Oklahoma. She was a proud member of the Choctaw Indian Nation in Durant. She had loving memories of growing up on the farm with her: “Old Grandma”, Belle Haney Airington; Mom & Dad, James and Mary Alice Driskill; two sisters, Wanda and Darla Jean; and her brother Donald. The family moved to Selma, CA in 1948. In 1952, on her birthday, she married the love of her life Nova Artrip. Together, they moved to Turlock, CA. They welcomed their first son, David Artrip, in 1954; followed by (Jim) in 1958. They enjoyed a peaceful life on their family farm in West Turlock. Mom was a fabulous cook and baker. She provided many delicious meals and treats to their family and their friends throughout the years. The boy’s friends have fond memories of coming over for apple dumplings and other treats. As the boys became more independent, Clarice took a job at Emanuel Hospital in the housekeeping department. She made many lifelong friends there and is lovingly remembered for her cheery disposition and humming or singing in the halls while tending to her duties. She worked for 25+ years at the hospital and was able to cheer many patients in addition to her fellow employees. Son David’s family began to grow. Nova and Clarice welcomed three beautiful granddaughters into the world; Erin, Natalie and Cortney. Jim and his wife Donna, contributed with two more granddaughters, Amber and Katie. Many great memories were built as these girls grew into adults. Just shy of their 50th Wedding Anniversary, in March of 2002, Clarice lost her dear husband Nova. Although she treasured her sweet memories, she missed him every day since his passing. Her faithful companion, Rusty, kept her in line and gave her purpose after Nova passed. She became very involved in the Turlock Salvation Army as a church member and frequent volunteer. Again, she made many friends and will be remembered for sharing in Bible studies and singing hymns. Clarice was proud to be able to live independently and she lived in a friendly neighborhood where she made more treasured friends. We feel Clarice lived and died on her terms. She longed for the day she would see her sweet “Novie” once again and kiss his face, saying it would be the best day of her life. She is now with her sweetheart and her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Singing with the Angels and watching over us. She is survived by, Sisters: Wanda Bowles and Darla Jean Crater of Durant Oklahoma. Son David of Modesto. Son Jim (Donna) of Denair. Granddaughters: Erin (Nate) O’Hara of Medford, OR; Natalie (Brett) Bolman of Juneau, WI; Cortney (Chris) Gacayan of Hughson, CA; Amber Artrip of Oakland, CA and Katie Artrip of Hughson, CA. She had the privilege of loving-on nine great-grandchildren, and she was expecting another great-grandson and a great, great granddaughter this summer. She will be missed by all who knew her. A Celebration of Clarice’s life will be held at the Turlock Salvation Army on Monday, March 9, 2020 at 11:45 am. No need to wear black, Clarice loved colors!

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Clarice Artrip

July 18, 1936 - February 24, 2020