Claude Ernest Aylsworth Obituary (1928 - 2017)

Claude Ernest Aylsworth, age 88, of Greenville passed away at home on Friday morning, June 2, 2017, under the loving care of his dear wife, children, friends and Spectrum Health Hospice. The son of Ralph & Beatrice Aylsworth, he was born on July 20, 1928 in Greenville. Two very influential people in his life were Truey and Pete Larson who took care of him as a son in his formative years. A proud veteran of World War II, Claude served with the U.S. Army Ski Troops at Camp Carson, Colorado, and attained the rank of Sergeant. After returning home, he married Audrey Fae Thompson of October 21, 1949 and together they raised four children and enjoyed almost 68 years of marriage. At that same time he was employed by Federal Mogul Corp., retiring after 35 years of service. He then enjoyed a second career owning and managing rental properties and also was the founder and owner of U Lock Storage before selling it 25 years ago. Being the creative individual that he was, Claude enjoyed many varied interests that include and not limited to enjoying time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, building and enjoying several lake cottages, sign painting , drawing and painting of art, candle making, sailing, woodworking , volunteering on the chain gang at Greenville High School football games, founded the annual family tradition of the Thanksgiving turkey bowl and at a very early age he dabbled in beer making. In recent years he built his two homes on Youngman Road that shared a manmade pond that included an island and a lighthouse. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Laura Harper; and three brothers, Lloyd, Kenneth, and Francis. Surviving are his wife, Audrey Aylsworth; their children, Cindy & Mike Raby of Oklahoma, Tom & Shawn Aylsworth, Jon & Paula Aylsworth, and Debbie & Bill Kemp, all of Greenville; thirteen grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; a sister, Shirley & Don Calkins of Greenville; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation with the family is from 6-8 p.m. on Friday at Christiansen Cremation & Funeral Care, 511 S. Franklin Street, Greenville, where memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday. The Rev. Kenneth Harger, retired pastor of Shiloh Community Church, will officiate and military honors will conclude the ceremonies. Those wishing to express their sympathy through a memorial contribution are welcome to donate to the Humane Society or to Spectrum Health Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.