Claude Philip Duty

Claude Philip Duty, age 87, surrounded by family, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2024. He was born January 16, 1937 in Spokane, WA to Claude and Elsie Duty. Claude grew up in Spokane and graduated from North Central High School in 1956. On October 7, 1956 he married Cleona Taylor. He entered the Civil Air Patrol while in high school in 1954, which led to his lifelong career in the Washington Air National Guard where he served in the 141st Air Refueling Wing. Claude was a veteran of Desert Storm where he was deployed twice, once to Saudi Arabia and once to Egypt. He retired from the Washington Air National Guard in 1993, with a rank of Senior Master Sergeant. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping and fishing. He served for several years as a scout master with Boy Scout Troop 480 in the Spokane Valley. He was actively involved in his church, The Community of Christ, where he served as a lay minister. In retirement, Claude was a SCOPE volunteer and enjoyed traveling with his wife Cleona. They took several trips to Alaska and Hawaii as well as traveling in their motorhome. He was a beloved father, grandfather and uncle and enjoyed spending time with his family. Survivors include his daughters Lori Brewer (husband Walt), Julie Scott (husband Jim), his sons Jeff Duty, Todd Duty (wife Trisha), grandchildren Brandon Brewer, Chad Brewer, Cleo Duty and his sister Delavena Yager (Missouri) as well as numerous cousins, nephews and nieces. Claude was preceded in death by his parents Claude and Elsie Duty, his brother Walter Duty and his wife of 64 years, Cleona. The family would like to thank the staff of Sunshine Health and Rehab in the Spokane Valley for their compassion and care during his final days.

Claude’s celebration of life will be held at the Spokane Community of Christ Church,11515 E Broadway Ave, Spokane Valley, WA on December 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM. The family requests in lieu of flowers and in celebration of Claude’s life and his proud military service, when you see a veteran, please thank them for their service. Online condolences may be expressed at ThornhillValley.com.