Claude Wilson

He was born February 23, 1923 on a farm outside of Caney, Kansas, son of Charles and Veda Wilson.

He attended college studying history but dropped out when he felt the call to enter the Army/Air Force during World War II. He was stationed in Tunis, Tunisia where he served as a bombardier completing 50 missions over parts of Europe.

Claude married Dorothy Louise Phelps on March 6th, 1943. They bought a dairy farm in November 1950 on Norton Cross Road, worked side by side as successful farmers for many years. They were members of the Westville Grange and the Dairyman’s League.

He also worked at the Otsego County Jail from the early 70’s until the mid 80’s.

Claude had been an active member of the Cooperstown VFW and the Milford American Legion where he served as post commander for two terms. His fellow legionnaires highly respected him and considered him a real hero of WWII.

He loved to play golf, cards, and garden and was an avid reader. He was known by many neighbors as the secret garden deliverer. Early in the morning, he would leave bags of fresh veggies for them to enjoy which they would later discover when they would go to their door.

Claude is survived by his children, Gary (Pamela) Wilson, Marjorie (Stanley) Eggleston; his three grandchildren, Lee Ann (Jeremy) Vandusen, Christina Fein, and Charles (Jessica) Wilson; eight great grandchildren, Charles Wilson, Claudia Wilson, Elijah Fein, Ivan Fein, Erica Reynolds, Jason Hart, Trent Vandusen and Isaiah Vandusen. Also surviving is his sister Delora Walker.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Dorothy “Dottie”, of 51 years; and his sister, Lois Barrett.

Per Claude’s wishes there will no calling hours nor a funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to the Middlefield Fire Department, Catskill Area Hospice or the Milford American Legion Post 1566.

Condolences to the family may be made online by visiting our website: www.grummonsfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are by the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home of Oneonta.