At a young age, he enlisted in the US Army. After World War II, Claude escorted our war dead back to their families. He often spoke about how this was an honor bestowed on him. As part of this special assignment, he escorted twenty-two soldiers home. He was recalled to the Army in 1951 and served as a staff sergeant combat engineer in Korea. From 1953 until 1986, at his retirement, Claude was employed by Duke Power as an Operation Shift Supervisor.
Claude was a member of First United Methodist Church, Stanley. There he served as a district lay leader as well as led and served various committees throughout the church. He was Past Master of Masonic Lodge 713 and Past Commander of American Legion Post 266. He served Stanley as a councilman and as mayor pro-tem. Claude was an avid surf fisherman, gardener, and cook. He was well known for his Chow Chow. However, his greatest passion was his family.
He was preceded in death by his bride of 62 years, Sue Rudisill Lutz and an infant son, Ryan Charles Lutz. He was also preceded in death by his sisters Inez Beam, Starlene Smart, Sue Haynes, Linda Rhinehart and brother, David Lutz.
Claude is survived by his children Libby Carroll of Lincolnton N.C., Gary Lutz and wife Donna of Gastonia N.C., Pamela Barfield and husband Grover of Stanley/Lucia N.C., and Eric Lutz and wife Pam of McAdenville N.C. He was the grandfather to 10, and great-grandfather to 12.5 beautiful babies. There was always a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye when he was with them or talking about them. He has one surviving sister, Virginia Smith of Conyers Georgia .
His celebration of life will be at 2 pm on Sunday, February 20, 2022. It will be held at First United Methodist Church - Common Ground located at 5481 Hickory Grove Road, Stanley. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Food Pantry at Stanley UMC.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.carothersfuneralhomestanley.com for the Lutz Family.
