LANESBOROUGH, Mass. —  Claire Elaine (Boyer) Kristensen, 78, of Lanesborough, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and friends.
Born on October 18, 1947, Claire was the youngest daughter of Bernard F. and Madeline A. Boyer. She was raised in Williamstown, attending Williamstown Elementary School and graduating from Mount Greylock Regional High School in 1965.
In 1966, she married her high school sweetheart, Neils C. (Butch) Kristensen, Jr. in Williamstown, Massachusetts, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, devotion, and unwavering commitment to family.
While raising her family and building her career, Claire went on to further her education and earned her degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1992. She was a devoted mother not only to her three children but helped raise several nieces and nephews and served as a steady source of guidance and support to many in her extended family and circle of friends. Her door — and her heart — were always open to those in need.
Claire dedicated much of her professional life to strengthening the financial foundation of her community. She served as the former CEO of the now MyCom Federal Credit Union for 29 years, retiring in 2009 after a remarkable career defined by steady leadership and vision. During her tenure, she guided the credit union through significant growth, including the successful acquisition and merger of several local credit unions. These strategic expansions not only strengthened the institution but ensured that community-focused banking services remained accessible to generations of families. She also served as the President of the Berkshire County Chapter of Credit Unions and was a board member of the Massachusetts Credit Union League, Inc. Claire's leadership was marked by integrity, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to helping others achieve financial security.
Claire's dedication to service extended well beyond her professional role. She remained deeply involved in the town she loved, contributing her time and leadership to the Lanesborough Fire and Water District, as Clerk and Treasurer, and the Lanesborough Council on Aging as a Shine Volunteer. In every capacity she served, Claire brought the same strength, loyalty, and sense of responsibility that defined her life.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Claire found her greatest joy in baking, antiquing, and surrounding herself with the people she loved. Bold in both humor and opinion, she insisted that every baby be properly hatted—and she would gladly tell you why. She and her husband, Butch, shared a love of antiques and proudly owned and operated their shop, Victorian Lady, and he especially adored her homemade apple pies. Her home was a place of warmth, comfort, and welcome. She treasured holidays, family gatherings, and the simple, everyday moments that brought everyone together.
Claire is survived by her devoted husband, of nearly 60 years, Neils C. "Butch" Kristensen, Jr., her daughters, Kirsten Kristensen-Schwarzer (Ralph) and Kari Kristensen; her sister, Rosalie Richard; and her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Jean, Karen, John, Marge, Mick, Rick, Francesca, and Lynn. She was a proud grandmother to eight beloved grandchildren: Tierney Carlson (Scott Watson), Callie Carlson (Paul Towsky), Kyle Rocca, Randi Rocca, Cody Schwarzer, Kyle Schwarzer, Ciera Schwarzer, and Alayna Schwarzer; and a cherished great-grandmother to Magnolia and Clara Watson, and Benjamin and Aurora Towsky. She also leaves her loyal companion, Jenny Belle, as well as her two dear lifelong friends, Lois Bouchard and Nancy Koloc.
Besides her parents, Claire was predeceased by her beloved son, Neils C. Kristensen, III (Nick); her brother, Francis; her sister, Joan; her brothers-in-law, Peter Whitney, Sam Guyette and Walter Braman; her nieces, Lisa, Monica, Nancy, and Rebecca; and her nephews, Francis, Richard, and Timothy.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to HospiceCare in The Berkshires and the staff of Berkshire Medical Center for their compassion and exceptional care.
In accordance with Claire's wishes, there will be no wake or funeral services. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Claire's memory may be made to No Paws Left Behind, HospiceCare in The Berkshires, Inc., or the Lanesborough Council on Aging through Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford Street, Pittsfield, MA.