Claude J Lott

Claude J Lott, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose life was defined by dedication to his family, his faith, and his craft, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Claude was born on September 30, 1937, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Willard and Iola Lott. He was the eldest of four children and, while growing up, the family moved frequently, living in various parts of the western United States.

After high school, Claude pursued his passion for problem solving at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, graduating in 1961 with a degree in mechanical engineering. This profession became the foundation of his life's work. Soon after graduation, Claude's career took him to Florida, where he spent several years assisting in the design of rocket motors and their propulsion systems. A pivotal moment came when his stake president encouraged him to consider serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Because a mission was not initially in his plans, Claude sought personal revelation and made the decision to serve a two-year mission. He moved to Orem, Utah, where he lived with his parents while preparing and awaiting his call. Claude was subsequently called to the Birmingham, England Mission, where he served honorably.

Upon returning to Utah, Claude secured employment with Hercules, a major player in Utah's rocket industry. This would be his professional home for the next 34 years until his retirement. Claude joined a young adult choir and met the love of his life, Zella Kay Knight. After a year of courtship, Claude and Kay were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on October 21, 1971. They soon welcomed two sons, Jason, followed two years later by Jared. As an engineer who excelled at logic and precision, Claude was constantly engaged in mechanical projects. He enjoyed the quiet satisfaction of solving problems and often designed and fabricated parts to fix broken appliances, cars, or equipment that didn’t work "just right." His dedication to his career was only surpassed by his love for his wife, Kay, and his commitment to raising their two boys.

Claude was a humble man who never sought the spotlight and preferred to focus on the security and well-being of his family. He enjoyed the outdoors, being with family, and learning. His dry, witty humor brought moments of levity to those closest to him. His life was centered on his faith. His search for personal truth led him along a path of deep respect for the sacred, acceptance of truth beyond himself, and a peaceful relationship with his Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. His greatest earthly devotion was to his wife, Kay, a marriage that lasted 47 years before her passing in 2018.

Claude is survived by his brother, Wayne (Ann); two sons, Jason and Jared (Gillian); and six beloved grandchildren: Torie, Alyssa, Garrison, Malihah, Archer, and Oliver.

A viewing in Claude's honor will be held on Friday, December 19th 2025 from 4 PM to 7PM at Valley View Funeral Home, 4335 W 4100 S, West Valley City, UT 84120