Clara Eliza Coles. Clara Eliza Coles. Clara Eliza Coles.
Written by Rhonda Campbell (nee Coles)
Clara Elizabeth (Eliza) Ward was born on the 18th January 1922 in Woodanilling (the daughter of Oliver Fred and Louise Ward – ed.)
Clara Elizabeth Coles
Would anyone be able to another photo of Clara Coles for this page?
Our Mother might not have been a high profile person but throughout her life she did so much for our community in little ways that when you add it all up she achieved more than most.
Widowed at an early age of just 45 years, she raised ten children, eight of whom were living at home. Our Mother was most happy when her family were around. She was very proud of all her family always supporting and encouraging her own children and then when her grandchildren came, taking great interest in what they were doing.
Clara Coles was made a Life Member of the Australs Football Club after the death of our Father, for all the hard work they both did for the Club, and sport in general in the Great Southern. They coached, washed football jumpers or helped out in the canteens encouraging family and friends to join.
Later on she joined other community services, one being The Ladies Auxiliary, where she was member until her death, encouraging her family to support this worthy cause, either by cooking cakes for stalls, selling poppy’s and raffle, tickets or just attending an ANZAC or Remembrance Service. To this day even her grandchildren support or attend these services in respect for their grandparents.
For many years she went to Perth for meetings and gatherings for other auxiliary associations visiting Memorials, War Homes, and bringing joy to people who sadly had been forgotten. Once a year she would attend a camp in Busselton meeting many wonderful people along the way.
As long as I can remember she attended Thursday Creek Group at the Katanning District Hospital. At the beginning she participated in crafts until her hands were troubled by arthritis. Until the day she passed away she went every Thursday unless her family were visiting. Even though she could not participate, she still went along. She enjoyed the social side, talking to others and buying craft things to take or give to someone.
She was also a member of Probus Club and the Pensioners League, where she enjoyed all her outings very much.
As a piece written about her by a member of the family said ‘a courageous lady, the pain and suffering and frustration she encountered was not deserved’. She didn’t complain; she got on with life giving all to her family and friends. Always willing to help out or just to have a chat or cup of tea with them.
Our mum was the biggest mentor in our lives. She left us a legacy, which we are very proud of. When someone comes up to you and asks ‘are you a Coles form Katanning? (Ron and Kate Coles), a lump forms and you know your parents were the best and achieved so much in their lives, leaving us a legacy of great love and respect for two truly wonderful people.
Clara Coles died on the 9th November 1997.