Throughout Claire J. Meyers Sugarman’s life, the successful businesswoman gave away more than she acquired. For other people–friends, family, employees, acquaintances and even strangers–she bought cars, paid off mortgages or credit-card debts, or college tuition for their children. “I learned more about generosity from her than anyone else,” her stepson, Joseph, said. “She gave away millions.” Mrs. Sugarman, 78, of Chicago, died of cancer on Monday, Feb. 16, in her home. Born in Switzerland, she came to Chicago when she was 21. She worked as a nanny and at several odd jobs before working at the company now known as the Consolidated Door Corp. She married the company’s owner in 1966. Her husband had four adult children from a previous marriage. In 1993, Mrs. Sugarman took over the company when her husband fell ill. He died in 1996. She worked up until her death. “If she could talk, she was on that phone directing employees and talking to customers,” her stepson said. “She refused to accept the fact that she was dying … She was feisty and persistent until the end.” Despite her tough exterior, Mrs. Sugarman had another side. “She was like a two-edged sword. She had one of the hardest demeanors you could imagine. But on the same token, she had the biggest heart you could imagine,” her stepson said. “On her death bed, she asked, `Do you think I will be going to heaven?’ ” “Of course you will,” he said he replied. Other survivors include three stepdaughters, Barbara Schultz, Nancy and Judy. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Fourth Presbyterian Church, Michigan Avenue and Delaware Place.
