Claryce Bany

Claryce Roseann Kuhlmann Bany, of Eyota, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at the age of 87.

Born on September 25, 1937, in Rochester, Minnesota, Claryce graduated from Eyota High School in 1955 and earned a degree in Home Economics Education and Extension from Iowa State University in 1959. She married Merle Bany on January 2, 1960. Together, they raised eight children on their family farm near Potsdam before later parting ways.

In addition to her work on the farm, Claryce held positions with Lakeside Packing and Mayo Clinic before beginning a long and meaningful career in Admissions at Rochester Community College. Known affectionately as "the nice one" by students and staff alike, Claryce brought warmth, empathy, and dedication to her work for nearly 30 years, retiring in 2008.

A woman of strong faith and deep community roots, Claryce was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over 60 years. Her lifelong involvement in 4-H began in her youth, when she showed award-winning Jersey cattle and received a commendation from then-Senator Hubert Humphrey for a hand-tailored Style Revue outfit. She later became a 4-H leader and involved all her children in the program from a young age.

Claryce was also musically gifted-playing multiple instruments and accompanying countless individuals over the years. Known in high school as "the human pitch pipe," she had an exceptional ear for music, could play familiar songs from memory, and transposed music effortlessly.

She found great joy in attending her children's and grandchildren's music performances and sporting events. Over the years, she attended countless concerts, recitals, and games. Growing up near Viola, she was a lifelong participant in Viola Gopher Count, attending regularly for over 80 years. Claryce was a longstanding member of Hilltop Fellowship Church and a beloved presence in her community.

Claryce is survived by her seven children: Colleen (Mark) Szymanski, Michelle Mulvihill, Monte (Mary) Bany, Chrisette Bany, Melanie Glynn (Glenn Sylvester), Crystal Bany, and Cherise (Joe) Rauter. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren: Craig Szymanski, Maureen Szymanski, Keegan Mulvihill, Karson Mulvihill, Kaidyn Mulvihill, Rachel Bany, Ethan Bany, Grace Bany, Miranda Glynn, Brady Glynn, Taryn Bany, Lauren Rauter, and Taylor Rauter.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Rose Kuhlmann; her daughter, Collette; her son-in-law, Tim Mulvihill; and her sister and brother-in-law, LaDonna and Ray Ward.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Hilltop Fellowship Church (58451 Wabasha County Rd 2, Millville, MN 55957). A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 4 pm - 7 pm at Schad and Zabel Funeral Home in Plainview, MN and an hour prior to the service at the church. Luncheon to follow at the church.

Claryce will be remembered for her gentle spirit, musical gifts, unwavering faith, and deep love for her family and community. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hilltop Fellowship Church.

Schad and Zabel Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Bany family.