Claude Ernest Whitley

Claude passed away in his sleep during the morning of February 18th. He lived with Diabetes and Chronic Heart Disease for several years. He had just celebrated his 65th wedding anniversary.

He was born in Tuscaloosa, Al on September 12, 1938. On his 17th birthday, he joined the US Air Force and was transferred to Germany where he met his wife, Ellie. Claude stayed in the Air Force for roughly 24 years and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. While in the Air Force, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Maryland and went on to pursue additional studies towards a master’s degree. After retirement, he took several jobs within management at different companies, but he was really defined by his role as Management Analyst in the US Air Force where he analyzed and improved policies, procedures and programs saving the US government millions of dollars over his career. He received numerous awards and citations for his work.

Claude was an avid traveler, fisherman and dog lover. He was a friend to neighbors and strangers alike. In his free time, he loved tutoring, teaching kids and young adults to read.

He is survived by his loving wife, three sons, five grandkids and two dachshunds, Mick and Mack.

Claude will be laid to rest among other fellow veterans at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Maple Valley, WA.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to one of the following organizations: 

• https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/Tahoma.asp
• https://hearts4doxiesrescue.org/
• https://legacy.humanesociety.org/memorials-and-tribute-gifts
• https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give

• https://www2.heart.org/site/SPageNavigator/donatenow_GRFW.html