Claude Gianetto

Claude Gianetto, 86, well-loved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, physician, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on February 27th with family at his side. Claude's enthusiastic and compassionate approach to life will live on in the memories of his adored wife of 58 years, Judy, and his sons and daughters-in-law -- Mark and Jody, Jim and Dee, Dan and Dara. But perhaps the memories with most impact will be of the time he shared with his treasured grandchildren -- Sam, Julianne, Amy, Jack, Charles and Joshua. Claude rejoiced in the small moments with each whether embracing them as infants, watching a sporting event, or just sitting and observing them discover the world. Claude's education path took him from Geneva (IL) High School to Beloit College where his love of sports blossomed on the football field, baseball diamond and tennis court. Claude next brought his distinct and energetic grasp of both science and emotion to University of Chicago Medical School and his internship/residency at University of Iowa Hospital. It wouldn't surprise anyone to learn Claude served as Medical Officer in the the Army's 101st Airborne Division and 508th Airborne Regiment. Claude and Judy and their young family often spent vacations in Colorado and in 1972 decamped from Alton, Illinois to Longmont establishing both home and practice. Colorado seemed to adopt Claude and gave him the chance to ski, hike, golf, play tennis, and most importantly fish the mountain streams. We have all heard Claude speak eloquently of his time "on the water." Landing that beautiful rainbow was a delight but the trail to that point was just about as important. Anyone who has been on the river with Claude will remember the pure joy in his face as he played another trout on the line. Claude often said he had two families -- Judy and the boys and his medical colleagues and patients. He shared his intelligence, compassion and integrity with all. All in his extended family knew could count on a call from Claude if he heard of some medical condition or situation. And of course he was generous with his understanding, experience and compassion. The world was Claude's hiking destination. He truly loved the adventure of new places and sharing them with both friends and family. A few years ago, Claude managed to take his entire family to the Gianetto ancestral home in Sicily. He often recounted many of the visits and activities of that trip but also the thoughtful and meaningful moments he enjoyed just being in that place and thinking about the paths his parents, Anthony and Jennie traveled. When Claude showed up at the Boulder Country Club golf course, he came with an impish grin and the skill to take quarters in abundance from his playing partners. To Claude golf was only golf if there was some "action" no matter how small. On the tennis court his playing partner had best remember Claude did not like to lose and most often did not. A life long learner and lover of music, Claude for many years took advantage of classes at CU, collected and shared Great Courses and loved singing with the CU Men's Choir. His thoughtful and inquisitive nature sparked many a conversation deep in philosophy and wonder no matter the subject. Claude made something amazing out of life. When with him, you were loved and blessed and maybe even precious. Perhaps Claude's grandson Sam said it best for all of us. "...you are my fishing buddy and most importantly my friend. I will treasure the memories and lessons you blessed me with." At some time in the near future, when we are able to gather safely, we will share stories and memories of Claude in a celebration of his life. In memory of Claude a donation to either of the following will be greatly appreciated -- Reel Recovery --reelrecovery.org -- a non-profit organizing fly-fishing retreats for men living with all forms of cancer. Trout Unlimited -- TU.org-- dedicated to conserve, protect and restore North America's coldwater fisheries.