He was born in Panna Maria, Texas, to Walter and Lucy Zaiontz. Claude married Laurie on October 28, 1950, and together they shared 72 years of marriage. He devoted his life to his family and was a loving and generous man who quietly supported many charitable organizations throughout his life.
While raising eight children, Claude founded The Zee Company, Inc., building it into a respected FAA certified aircraft component repair station serving customers throughout the world. Later, he founded ZEE Systems, Inc., manufacturing FAA-approved environmental control, heating, and air conditioning systems for numerous aircraft platforms. Claude was among the first jet engine mechanics in the United States Air Force. His exceptional technical ability, analytical thinking, and innovative approach led to many practical and cost-saving solutions for complex aviation challenges. His work and leadership left a lasting impact on both the aviation industry and the many employees and customers whose lives he touched.
Claude was a devout Catholic whose faith guided his life. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and his time spent with family and friends at the deer lease created countless cherished memories. In later years, he especially enjoyed deep-sea fishing from his boat. Those who knew Claude will remember his quiet generosity, unwavering work ethic, dry sense of humor, and willingness to help others. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lucy Zaiontz; his beloved wife of 72 years, Laurie Zaiontz; daughters, Moira Zaiontz and Elena Sjolander; brothers, Joe and Adrian; son-in-law, Felton Stallings; grandsons, Lani Mejia and Zachary Zaiontz; and great-grandson, Vladimier Zaiontz.
Claude is survived by his children: Kevin (Edie) Zaiontz, Sabra Stallings, Lorna Mejia, Carla Zaiontz, Derek (Chere) Zaiontz, Greta Zaiontz, and Marta (Adolfo) Ortega; his grandchildren: Krista (Brian) Pauley, Dean (Tracey) Gibson, Clinton Murphy, Christopher (Jessica) Zaiontz, and L'Chelle (Jason) West and granddaughter-in-law (Linda); his great-grandchildren: Alex (Sarah) Pauley, Bailey Pauley, Hannah Gibson, Lucas Gibson, Sadie Gibson, Kristen Murphy, Nichole Murphy, Ashlyn Zaiontz, and Karson Stout; and his great-great-granddaughters, Tindall Pauley and Luci Pauley.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary North, located at 2102 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX 78232, with a Rosary to follow at 7:00 p.m.
A Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, located at 1602 Thousand Oaks Dr, San Antonio, TX 78232.
Interment will immediately follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.
