Claude McClurg

Claude McClurg of Kalamazoo, age 73 died on August 12, 2026. Claude was born March 5, 1953 in Watervliet to Charles and Opal (Richardson) McClurg. He was a devoted husband and a loving family man whose greatest joy in life was his family. He cared deeply for all his grandchildren, and being their grandpa was one of the most important roles of his life. He took great pride in them and wanted nothing more than to be the best grandfather he could be. His love for his grandchildren was evident in the time he spent with them, the memories he made with them, and the love he showed them.

Claude had a personality that was impossible to forget. He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh. If there was an opportunity to say something funny, tease someone, or pull a little prank, Claude was probably going to take it. His sense of humor brought laughter to the people around him, and those moments will be cherished by everyone who knew him.

Claude also loved the outdoors and the camping life. Camping wasn’t simply something he enjoyed—it became a very special part of his life story. It was while on a camping trip that Claude met the love of his life, Cheryl. From that moment, their lives became intertwined, and they remained together ever since. Their love and the life they built together became one of Claude’s greatest blessings.

Claude spent most of his working life as a truck driver, driving for Van Eerden Trucking, among other places. He took pride in his work and spent many years behind the wheel. He also had a passion for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and Corvettes, enjoying the freedom and excitement that came with them.

But more than anything, Claude loved his family. He was a loving husband, a devoted grandfather, and someone who found great happiness in the people he loved. His grandchildren held a particularly special place in his heart, and being the best Grandpa he could be was, in many ways, his purpose in life.

Claude leaves behind a lifetime of memories—camping trips, motorcycle rides, jokes, pranks, family gatherings, and countless moments of laughter and love. His family will remember him not only for the things he loved, but for the love he gave so freely. His grandchildren will carry his memory in their hearts, along with the laughter, stories, and memories that made him their Grandpa.

Rest peacefully, Claude. You were deeply loved, you lived a life full of memories, and you will be missed more than words can say.

Claude was preceded in death by his son, Claude; siblings: Charles McClurg, Mary McClurg, Micky Lamp. Surviving are his wife, Cheryl; children: Jason (Sarah) McClurg, Jim McClurg, Marilyn (Colin Nicome) Stratton, Darlene (Larry) Crosby, and Holly (Lavelle) Gilbert; grandkids: Jessica, Ethan, Elizabeth, Dimande, Shanice, Lavelle Jr., Ezariah, Vanessa, Haley, Landyn, Cierra, Nathaniel, and Megan; several great-grandkids; siblings: Nancy Taylor, Linda (Tommy) Garland, Terry McClurg; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 29, at 11 AM at Kalamazoo First Assembly of God. A reception will follow in the church cafe. Celebrate Claude’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Kalamazoo First Assembly of God.

Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.