Chiara Moerschel

Chiara Moerschel, 86, passed away Monday, Nov. 7, 2011. Chiara was born Nov. 15, 1924, in Trieste, Italy. Her father was a government official working in Africa. During this time, the British occupied Ethiopia. Chiara and her mother became prisoners of war and spent time in an internment camp. It was there that she began painting. Chiara met her husband, Rollin, while he was stationed in Trieste after World War II. They married there and then moved to Rollin's hometown, St. Charles, Mo., where they lived together for 28 years. In the 1960s Chiara founded the St. Charles Artists Guild. She became very well-known in the St. Louis area for her art and her support for the local arts. Her home studio overflowed with awards for her services and her art. She has had exhibitions all over the world; her art hangs in universities and corporate offices across the country, and in several hospitals in Fort Worth. In 1995 she moved to Fort Worth to be close to her only child, her daughter Lynn. She continued to paint daily, enter art competitions and win many more awards. She was an active member of the Fort Worth Watercolor Society and the Trinity Arts Guild. Chiara was also a member of Mira Vista Country Club, active both socially and athletically. She loved her tennis and played until the age of 84. Chiara was a vital force of nature, blessed with talent and a true joie de vivre. She had an immense zest for life, and her departure leaves a large void on this earth. Survivors: Her loving daughter, Lynn Long; son-in-law, Jim Long; grandchildren, Carson and Tara; nieces, Sabrina and Serena in Trieste; and her most beloved dog, Tigger. Service: A private celebration of life will be held 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at Mira Vista Country Club. Memorials: Donations may be made in her honor to the Humane Society, Arthritis Association or Alzheimer's Association.