Lorene Rhea (Nigus) Claunch died Monday, March 15, 2010 at a Topeka Hospital. Lorene was born in Hiawatha, KS June 24, 1915, the daughter of Ray and Louise Nigus. After graduating from Hiawatha High School in 1933 she was employed by Dr. R.T. Nichols. Lorene married George Claunch in 1937; they farmed in the Kennekuk, Kansas area until moving to Horton in 1954.

Lorene was employed at the Horton Garment Company for twenty-five years, and the Horton Housing Authority for eight years, retiring in 1987. She was an active member of Horton First Baptist Church, American Baptist Women, Horton Business Women, and the Hospital Auxiliary. For the last three years, Lorene resided in Topeka at Lexington Park Assisted Living.

In addition to her parents, Lorene was preceded in death by her husband, George in 1973; four sisters: Marjorie Hammond, Elva Wilson, Charlotte Cheek, Vera McQueen; two brothers: Keith Nigus and Deane Nigus; and Grandson, Randall Moss.

Survivors include her brother, Duane Nigus, Topeka, KS; daughter, Eloise Moss (Charles) Bulverde, Texas; son, Jerry Claunch (Virginia) Topeka, KS; five Grandchildren, eleven Great Grandchildren, and six Great Great Grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place at Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas on Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.

Funeral Service will be at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, March 18, 2010 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary.

Burial immediately following the service at Horton City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests Memorial Gifts be made to First Baptist Church of Horton, or a Charity of the donor's choice and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com