Claire Ries Obituary

Claire Wesson Ries passed away on April 17, 2023 after a long battle with cancer, one day shy of her 84th birthday. She was born and raised on Catamount Mountain in Pittsfield, N. H. She was a graduate of Concord High School, Class of 1957. She then went on to a career as an X-ray technician at the Concord State Hospital, before settling down as a full-time mom. She enjoyed her time on Squam Lake, loved fishing, and enjoyed teaching her grandchildren to fish. Claire was a creative soul with many passions; creating flower arrangements, gardening, sketching and she enjoyed sewing and crocheting to unwind. Claire always made time for everyone, providing support, advice, and love for her family and friends. She enjoyed the large family gatherings, especially the Ries 4th of July Bash at their home in Merrimack, NH, and treasured the one-on-one time with her grandchildren. She is survived by Arnold, her husband of 59 years. Her children; April (Couch) Artim, Richard Couch and his wife Jane, Angela (Ries) and her husband Ray Lavallee, Alicia (Ries) and her husband Chris Briggi, Alayna (Ries) Rivas, A. J. Ries; her brother Michael Wesson and his wife Lucy, 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Claire was sadly predeceased by her daughter Allison (Couch) and her husband Robert Evans, her parents John and Violet (Tilton) Wesson, and her brothers Robert, Craig, Brian, and John. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or American Cancer Society in memory of Claire Ries, to support cancer research and patient care.