John Edward Clatworthy

John Clatworthy passed peacefully on September 9, 2020. He was born and raised in Fresno California and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1965. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon School of Music in 1969. He had a love of music and theater. He played the French horn and participated in many theater groups throughout his life.

After graduation from U of O he went on to get his teaching certificate from PSU and taught at Villa St Rose. He started working with IASTE, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Local 28 on March 11, 1975 and worked in the Portland theater and entertainment community. He had held numerous positions in Local 28 including being the current president. Over the years he had worked for Portland Opera as their production electrician. He had attended numerous concerts, operas and theater performances both in Portland and around the world. He was immensely proud to have had the chance to have a private tour of the Sydney Opera House in Australia and attend a performance.

He had a love for sailing and had been a member of both Willamette Sailing Club and Rose City Yacht Club. His first boat was a Thistle that he raced at Willamette Sailing Club. He then moved on to two different cruising boats at Rose City Yacht Club. All of these provided him with relaxation and sense of shared community. Over the years he had also found a love for good food and wine. He enjoyed travel and discovering local crafts and artisans. His favorite travel destinations were in British Columbia, Canada, and the US west coast. Stopping and talking with local artists provided him with many hours of enjoyment. In later years he found that he enjoyed gardening after the installation of a green house and the acquisition of many pots and tools. He also loved old movies.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Wanda Clatworthy. He leaves his wife of 50 years, Donna and daughter, Valerie.

A virtual memorial service is being planned through First Congregational Church of Portland. The date for this service has yet to be announced.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a charity of your choice in John’s name.

He will be cremated with a private scattering of ashes planned in the future.

Arrangements by Zeller Chapel of the Roses.