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BORN
1932
DIED
2018
Claude McCombs Obituary
Oct 19th, 1932- June 10th, 2018
Santa Cruz
Claude was born in San Jose and moved to Santa Cruz at age 1. He was raised at Pleasure Point on the corner of East Cliff and Manzanita where he and his brother fished, went clamming, and enjoyed the beach and ocean while growing up. Claude went to the Naval Academy in Lake Elsinore on a football scholarship out of Santa Cruz High School, and was then drafted into the Air Force where he tested B32s. After the service he worked with his father Erle in construction handling all aspects of commercial and residential construction from foundation to roof. He then joined the carpenters union focusing on finish carpentry where he worked all over the bay area. After retiring, he and his wife bought multiple properties that they remodeled and developed. He was known as the, "Mayor of Encinal St", after buying and developing multiple pieces of property, as well as building four wearhouses in the Costco area. In the latter chapter of his life what he had most pride in was the achievements and many friends he made in the small town of Chowchilla.
Claude was run over by a train on 41st Ave and had a forklift topple over on his leg, and yet came back stronger and more driven after each accident. He was active and strong into his 90's despite outworking all around him day in and day out for decades doing manual labor. His handshake was his signature and was steady right until the end. He will be remembered as the toughest of the tough, 200lbs of blue twisted steel, and the old grey fox. As strong as they come and smart as a whip. He was a perfectionist, determined, and did not suffer fools. Sharp, driven, and stubborn.
Claude is survived by his beloved wife Rose of 53 years. Son John, daughter Rebecca. Grandchildren Tasha, Chris and Jason. Great grandchildren Cole, Elle, and Scotland.
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Memories and Condolences
for Claude McCombs
Sponsored by santacruzsentinel.com.
6 Entries
Yukie Hawkes
June 11, 2019
Has it been a year? Unbelievable. Sometimes I still expect to hear him answer the door and ask "what's new with you?" He's still around ...in our hearts and in our thoughts....people who've touched our lives like Claude always do. Thank you Claude.
Shirley Harp
October 3, 2018
I've just heard of Claude's passing and am so sorry. We're living in Taylors, SC and I only occaaionaly, check CA news. Aunt Chicky (Rose), please know that I'm praying that your many wonderful memories will keep your heart warm and bring smiles. I'm so sad that we've lost contact through the years. [email protected]
Sincerely,
Shirley (Tweety)
Debra Sklenar
June 19, 2018
Jim and I are really going to miss Claude. We have been neighbors for over 30 years. I'll miss Claude's stories about growing up in Santa Cruz and our neighbor Frank. Claude never could "make a long story short" no matter how much he tried! Jack (our dog), who Claude called Killer, will really miss his visits with him. I think Jack really wanted to see Rose's cat, but Claude was always really happy to see him. The neighborhood just isn't the same with his passing. Our love goes out to Rose and Red-O. Jim, Deb and Killer
Leslie Hagins
June 17, 2018
I'm so sad to hear of Claude's passing. He seemed like a man who could've lived forever and ever. So strong, so honorable, so capable, and still so very much alive...more so than many 1/2 his age. My deepest condolences to you, Rose. What an inspiring team you two made!! With love, Leslie (from the dental office)
Yukie Hawkes
June 16, 2018
Claude has lived an awesome life! He was a tough guy with a heart of gold who always had a twinkle in his eye whenever he'd talk of his wife, Rose.
I will dearly miss Claude and our occasional chats.
He and Rose had always made me and my family feel welcome with their endless supply of fruit and vegetables from Rose's bountiful garden.
I will always remember you in my heart Claude.
Yukie
June 16, 2018
We loved Claude so so so very much! He and Rose have been amazing neighbors and FRIENDS for almost 30 years! We already miss him, and will always hold a very big place in our hearts for our friend! We love you Claude!
Todd and Louanne
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