Claudia Mae (Lyon) Hale, affectionately known as Mama Hale, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, in Osborne, Kansas. Born on November 28, 1963, in Ft. Yates, North Dakota, Claudia's zest for life and her loving nature touched the hearts of many throughout her remarkable 62 years.
Claudia was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Max Lyle Lyon and Grace Mary (Harry Chin) Lyon, her siblings, Constance Ray Silk, Cheryl Lyon, Linda Lyon, and Branden Lee Lyon, as well as her partners: Randy Hale & Jerry Enoch. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by her partner Mark Roach & devoted children and their families: daughter Jessica Hinds (Martin) and grandsons Liam and Tristan; son Eric Hale; daughter Jaimie Potocnik (Brent) and grandsons Preston, Camden, Maxtyn, Brixon; daughter Stephanie Hale (Ronnie) and granddaughters Randi & Rosalinda; and daughter Teyha Enoch (Colton) and grandchildren Sutton & Truett.
A graduate of Smith Center High School, Claudia's work ethic and dedication to her community were evident throughout her diverse career. She spent 13 years with the Osborne County Ambulance, where her commitment to others shone brightly. Claudia's bravery and quick thinking were formally recognized when she received the Medal of Commendation from the Santa Fe Rail Road after assisting in the wake of a train derailment west of Osborne. Her love for animals and nurturing spirit was reflected in her role as a Nursery Manager at Osborne Industries' Hog Farm, where she oversaw the care and management of the livestock with compassion and expertise.
Claudia's talents extended to the manufacturing sector, where she worked at Tischlerei for three years building cabinetry and later during her six years of aircraft machining and assembly for P-40 fighter-bombers in Tipton, a testament to her wide-ranging skills and ability to excel in various fields.
Outside of her professional life, Claudia was a woman of many passions. She was deeply spiritual, finding strength in her Native American heritage and solace in the connection between all living things. Gardening was a particular joy for Claudia, as she cultivated beauty and life with her own hands. Her adventurous spirit led her to explore the country on her motorcycle, with the wind in her hair and a sense of freedom in her heart. Camping trips provided her with the opportunity to immerse herself in the natural world she so loved.
An avid crafter, Claudia brought creativity to everything she touched, whether it was cooking, crafting, or antiquing. Her culinary skills were legendary among her family and friends, and her home was often filled with the delicious aromas of her fried chicken, meatballs, biscuits & gravy and fry bread. But above all, it was the time spent with her grandchildren that Claudia cherished the most. Each moment was an opportunity to teach, to learn, and to love, and she embraced these opportunities with open arms.
Courageous, loving, and creative—these words encapsulate the essence of Claudia. Her life was a tapestry of meaningful moments, woven together by the love she shared and the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.