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Memorial Keepers (1)
Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood
Claude Ernest Whitley
September 12th, 1938 - February 18th, 2025
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.
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Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood
At Edwards Memorial, our dedication to serving the Tacoma community is reflected in our commitment to offering quality services at an unbeatable price. Recognizing that Washington State has one of the highest cremation rates in the country, we've tailored our approach to meet the specific needs of our community. Instead of investing in costly, elaborate facilities that are seldom used, we minimized our overhead expenses, allowing us to extend significant savings directly to the families we serve....
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