Hearl "Buck" Kenneth Clay Sr.

Hearl "Buck" Kenneth Clay Sr., Patriarch of a family that has been developing Snohomish county residential and commercial real estate for three generations, passed away peacefully at his home in Edmonds, Washington, on Monday, February 27, 2017. Buck was 90 years old.

Proceeded in death by his Parents, Claud and Myrtle Clay, his two older brothers, William "Pete" Earl Clay, Elmer Jearl "Jack" Clay (Bonnie), the love of his life Orpha "Lou" Clay and Missy "part dog" Clay. Buck will be greatly missed by surviving sister-in-law Artie Clay; children Diana Clay (Michael), Hearl Kenneth Clay, Jr., (Sharon), Kevin Clay (Penny); grandchildren Stacy Endres (Jerry), Ryan Clay (Mary), Adam Clay (Nikki), Lucas Clay, Dustin Clay; great grandchildren Ashley Stead, Riley Stead, Audrey Clay and many wonderful nieces, nephews, and many, many close professional associates and family friends.

Buck had a work ethic "we're burnin daylight" like no other and felt if you set your mind to something you could accomplish anything. Buck was born to a family that worked as migrant workers and followed crops throughout the south to support their families. He said he came from the poorest town in the poorest county in the poorest state, so there was no place to go but up. He traveled to California in his early 20's to find work and was one of the youngest foremen for the Soule Steel Company. They moved him north into Washington State where he worked on the Ross Dam and many bridges we all travel across to this day. Not complacent with this success and constantly striving for better for himself and his beloved family, he began his career in building income properties.

With all of his accomplishments Buck valued family, God and his country more than anything else and never forgot where he came from. As his grandson, Adam said, "I guess he had to boogie".

Our family would like to greatly thank the Visiting Angels of Snohomish County, specifically Melinda, Joan, Lude, Gloria and Abraham for their amazing, compassionate, respectful care during this challenging time. As well as the end of life care provided by the tremendous team of Providence Hospice Home and Healthcare of Snohomish County. We would also like to thank the staff of Doctors and Nurses at Providence Hospital “D” wing 7th and 8th floors for going above and beyond for Buck’s care.

There will be a public viewing held at Purdy & Walters at Floral Hills on Monday March 6th from 5-8pm. A celebration of Buck's wonderful life will be held on Tuesday, March 7th at 3:00pm at the chapel of Purdy & Walters/Floral Hills, with another public viewing starting at 10 am that morning prior to the service. Casual attire jeans preferred, he would have wanted that way. Immediately following will be a reception at the home of Ken & Sharon Clay (12416 Ironwood Lane, Mukilteo, WA 98275).

In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Providence Hospice and Home Care of Snohomish County.