LEWISTON — Claire Lorraine Ward, 68, of 196 Pleasant St., Lewiston, died Saturday, July 16, at her home with her husband by her side.

Born on Aug. 11, 1942, in East Hartford, Conn., she was the daughter of the late M. Jack and Elizabeth Manganello Dufault. She attended Holy Cross School and graduated in 1960 from Lewiston High School.

Claire was an active member of the Prince of Peace Parish at Holy Cross Church and was involved in the church choir and youth ministry. She worked as the circulation desk manager for the Lewiston Public Library for 20 years prior to her retirement in 2005. Many of her dearest friendships were forged through her work there.

Claire enjoyed family outings and parties, cookouts and visiting the seashore. She was especially fond of Acadia National Park. She also enjoyed reading, knitting and collecting knickknacks. She also enjoyed birdwatching with her husband, as well as her family cats and dogs. In 2004, she fulfilled the lifelong dream of touring Europe with her husband.

She loved her grandchildren dearly, and treasured the time she spent with them.

She will be remembered as a person with a generous heart who always saw the best in others. She had a special soft spot for animals, which she passed down to her children.

Claire is survived by her husband of 48 years, Richard H. Ward, of Lewiston, whom she married on June 15, 1963; two daughters, Renee and husband, Jason Libby, and Kimberly Dionne and life partner, Kelly Blaisdell; two sons, James and wife, Lynn Ward, and Richard P. Ward; eight grandchildren, Spencer and Leanna Ward, Sadie and Mia Guimond, Tess Libby, Marissa and Cameron Deschaine, and Isaac Dionne. She is also survived by a brother, Richard Dufault and wife, Susan; her mother-in-law, Cecile Ward; five sisters-in-law and their husbands, and a brother-in-law and his wife.

She was predeceased by a daughter, Marie, who died shortly after birth.

The family wishes to thank the staff and physicians at Central Maine Medical Center Hematology/Oncology, and the caring staff at Interim HealthCare.

Online guest book, photo gallery and condolences may be shared at www.thefortingrouplewistoncom.