May God bless you and your...
John was a wonderful man. Glen & I feel grateful to have known him. Our deepest sympathy to his beloved family.
Sharon Van Valin
January 20, 2013 | Prince Of Wales Island, AK


Chugiak, Alaska
Born March 7, 1933 to Ed and Ellen Claus in Tacoma, Washington, raised on a dairy farm he became a renowned horseman, able to gentle break even the hardest ones. With a deeply rooted passion for the outdoors he was a pioneer in early 1950's alpine climbing. He graduated from Western Washington...
Read MoreJohn was a wonderful man. Glen & I feel grateful to have known him. Our deepest sympathy to his beloved family.
Sharon Van Valin
January 20, 2013 | Prince Of Wales Island, AK
Dear Eleanor,
I just learned that "Mr. Claus" passed a few weeks ago, and I wanted to extend my sympathies to you and your family. He was my chemistry and aviation teacher at East from 1973-75. I have often told people that John was one of the biggest positive influences in my life. His passion for learning, for the great Alaskan outdoors, and for Christ had a direct and lasting impact on me. I thank God for him!
Todd Fisher, East '75
January 10, 2013
Dearest Eleanor
I fondly remember times with you and John during our time in Alaska. I pray for you comfort and am thankful for your giving and sharing spirit.
Carolyn Anderson
January 07, 2013
John lived a truly Christian life. A quiet, strong, wise voice to all who knew him.
Toby and Ward
January 06, 2013 | Anchorage, AK
Claus family, I was so sorry to hear of John's passing. I was honored to have known and spent so much time with him. He was one of my greatest mentors. Sending you all love and prayers.
Seneca Runyan Bivens
January 05, 2013 | Ardmore, OK
Eleanor and family. Judy and I are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with all of you. One afternoon I was watching the Outdoor Channel and there was John driving his tractor at the lodge, I about hit the ceiling when I jumped out of my chair. We will all see each other one day in the future. All the best from Spring Creek.
Bill and Judy
Bill & Judy Thomas
January 05, 2013 | Spring Creek, PA
Grandpa loved to fly in the Wrangels, and I will remember him each time I'm in the air over those mountains. I'm praying for all of you, Family, as you adjust to missing him. May God's peace and love fill your hearts.
--David & Gina Murrow
Gina & David Murrow
January 02, 2013 | Anchorage, AK
Dear Eleanor and family! Thank you for sharing the gift of John with so many others. He was a dear friend to my father, sharing many Whatcom County and horse adventures together in their youth. Thank you for the shared warmth and friendship as both men married and families grew. My prayers are with you all.
Deb Gustafson
January 02, 2013 | Chicago, IL
Eleanor (my namesake), I am sorry for your loss. But I know you have the hope of seeing him again. I love you and hugs to you.
Paul, Peggy, and Pam and families, your father/grandfather was a wonderful man and I know you will surely miss him. Hang onto the memories. And remember you have the hope of seeing him again in glory. Hugs.
Eleanor Dotomain Oliveri
January 02, 2013