Clara Mae Dean

Clara Mae Dean, 88, walked through heaven’s gate on January 27, in Des Moines Iowa. Born in Byron Nebraska on the Ropers family farm during the depression she was known as “Mighty Mouse” in her early days for her small stature and big heart. She overcame huge life challenges by trusting God and her positive “can do” spirit. She was a three-time widow; married to Lloyd Sagehorn (12 years), Don Bassett (12 years) and Jerry Dean (32 years). Clara Mae’s spiritual gifts were developing friendships and showing hospitality; she served others in so many ways whether it was volunteering at Methodist Hospital for over 40 years delivering flowers to patients , bringing Avon Products to your door, or simply staying in touch with life-long friends. She never missed sending a card to encourage or highlight a special event or birthday. She began each day reading “Jesus Calling” and Bible scripture and was involved in many church related women’s groups ( Zion Lutheran). She square danced / line danced most of her life, sewed many of her clothes, gardened rose beds, and enjoyed a good margarita while beating you in a card game. Although Iowa was her home, she was friend to many snowbirds as a “winter Texan” for 30 years. She is survived by daughter Patty Newcomb (Dave) from Wheaton Illinois, sons Jerry Sagehorn (Nell) from The Woodlands, Texas and Don Bassett, from Des Moines. Grandchildren Austin Newcomb (Ashley), Dylan Newcomb (Kat), Morgan Newcomb, Jack Sagehorn (Carly), Walter Sagehorn and 5 great grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Monday January 31st from 12:30 to 1:30 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home on 8201 Hickman RD, Urbandale, Iowa. Celebration of life to begin at 1:30 with interment at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, One NE 60th Ave. Special thanks for exceptional care at Kavanagh House on 56th Street. Please direct memorial donations to EveryStep Hospice; 3000 Easton Blvd. Des Moines IA 50317