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Michael Claypool Obituary

Michael C. Claypool, 61, of Erie, formerly of the village of Alum Rock, Richland Twp., Clarion County, a Vietnam War Veteran, died Monday, February 15, 2010, at Hamot Medical Center. Mr. Claypool was born in Oil City on January 3, 1949. He was the son of Donald and Donna Hahn Claypool. Mr. Claypool was a 1967 graduate of Allegheny-Clarion Valley High School in Foxburg. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, having served as a Sgt. in the Vietnam War. Mr. Claypool was employed in the maintenance department at the Veteran's Affairs Medical Center in Erie. He held memberships in various organizations, including The Vietnam Veterans of America, the VFW in both Parker and Erie, Foxburg American Legion, Moniuszko Singing Society, Foresters Beneficial Association, Saint Mary's Auditorium Association, Knox Rod and Gun Club, 3rd Street Falcons, and the Cascade Club. He was a member of Canby Lodge 520 F&AM in St. Petersburg, Zem Zem Shriners in Erie, as well as Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Coudersport. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson and was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He is survived by his parents, Donald and Donna Claypool of Alum Rock, a brother, Mitchell Claypool and his wife, Terri of West Springfield. Also surviving are a number of cousins, and many good friends. Friends will be received at Hile Funeral Home Inc., 802 Grove Ave., St. Petersburg, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and from 12 noon until 12:45 p.m. Friday. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday from the St. Petersburg United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Dan Myers, church pastor, officiating. Interment will be in St. Petersburg Cemetery. Full military honors will be conducted by the Foxburg American Legion Miller-Rankin Post 636 and the Parker VFW Roy Calvin McGinnis Post 7073. For additional information, directions, or to send a condolence, please visit www.hilefh.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Petersburg United Methodist Church, PO Box 281, St. Petersburg, PA 16054 or a veteran's charity.

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Published by Erie Times-News on Feb. 17, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Claypool

Not sure what to say?





Angela L

March 10, 2021

I just watched E.R. And they dedicated the show to an Angel and I wanted to give my Thoughts and condolences to all who loved him. God Bless You All

Patty & Bill Vogel

March 4, 2010

The Claypool family,
Mike was one of the nicest guys that we were honored to have as a friend, he always had a smile and something nice to say, we will never forget riding in a couple of poker runs with him, he will surely be missed by many. We'll keep him in our thoughts and prayers.
Patty and Bill Vogel

John & Susan Comstock

February 23, 2010

Mitch, Terri, "Duck" & Donna,
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Mike was a dear friend to us and our families. We laughed and cried together many, many times. We will miss him so much. I consider it a true honor to have known him.

Ed & Bonnie Ferstler

February 23, 2010

Mike was not only a co-worker of ours at the VA Hospital, but a personal friend as well. A more caring individual, you could not find, was Mike. We enjoyed his smiling face at the many parties we were at with him and his sudden appearanace at our house just to say "HI". Well Mike, it is our turn to say "HI" to a good friend who was taken from us much to early.

Ed & Bonnie Ferstler

Bob and Cindy Pelkowski

February 22, 2010

I sit here trying to find just the right words of comfort for Mike’s family and friends but I know there are none.
Words can’t express the deep sorrow that I feel at the loss of one of the finest men I know. So I look to my heart because that is where Mike is and will always be.
Even though we won’t have the pleasure of his company he will live on in the many lives he has touched and in all the great memories we have.
Thank you Mike for all that you gave us. Pelky

turk krupinski

February 21, 2010

my deepest condolences to the claypool family. mike was a heck of a guy and his smile was always next to no one. i never seen him without a smile on his face, and his laughter was something no one will never duplicate. he is with god now and i am sure god has plans for a super guy in heaven. he was one of the best while he was here. i as you and everybody else will miss him.

Dan and Irene Zuba

February 19, 2010

To the Claypool family we are truly sorry for your loss. We will miss Mike very much. He was our neighbor and friend who was always willing to lend a hand or share anything he had. We will miss him and keep you in our prayers.

Frank Schwartz

February 19, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathy. Mikes Friendship and Smile will always be with me and i will miss seeing him at Tops on Sundays.

Andy and Arleen Romba

February 19, 2010

We have been honored and privileged to have known Mike. We will miss his smiling face at the VA... He has taught us so much. He has been a friend to many who never knew they needed a friend. Our deepest condolences to you.

February 19, 2010

Our sympathy to the Claypool family ~ he was a lifelong friend of my father (R. Torrelli) and I always enjoyed seeing him @ Dominick's. My husband (Charlie Lopez) has known him just as long, and we both agree that he was once of the nicest people. We were sorry to hear of his passing.
Denise & Charlie Lopez

February 19, 2010

Mikey was the finest man I ever met. I will miss him dearly. My heart is broken. May the Claypool family find piece knowing they raised a wonderful son that will be deeply missed. Ride on, Mikey.. Pick me up at the gate of heaven....

JC

Jim, Patty and Tim Shea

February 19, 2010

Our sympathy to the Claypool family. Mike was a good friend. Every time he saw you he brightened your day. He had the ability to make you feel special. Mike's parties gave us the opportunity to enjoy and spend time with our friends. We will miss his laugh and kindness. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Todd & Charity Comand

February 19, 2010

To the family and friends of a wonderful man, we offer our condolences and sympathy in memory of one of the finest persons we had the honor of knowing.

Bill and Tammy

February 19, 2010

Mitch and Terri
Please accept our deepest condolences. So very sorry to hear of Mikes passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Patrick Wegemer

February 19, 2010

To Mike's family please accept my deepest condolences.
And what can I write that hasn't already been said by so many here? Shows what a great person Mike was.

Mathew & Becky DeForce

February 19, 2010

We are so blessed to have known Mike and have called him a dear friend. One of the kindest and most generous people we know. He will not be forgotten and that roar of a belly laugh will put a smile on my face everytime I think of him. We love you Mike, God has another angel.

Bill&Denise Albertson

February 18, 2010

Our condolences to your family. Mike was a good friend, and words cannot express how much he will be missed. He was always smiling, with a positive and caring attitude. He was selfless, and helped anyone in need. His passing was much too soon. We miss you big guy--rest in peace.

MARY DRABINA

February 18, 2010

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO MIKE'S FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS. I WORKED WITH MIKE AT THE ERIE VAMC AND WAS BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN SUCH A KIND, CARING MAN. HE WILL BE MISSED. REST IN PEACE MIKE...

February 18, 2010

You are a great friend who will be missed. Thanks for the smiles and laughs.

The Bigley and Sandell Families

Gene Wisinski

February 18, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss. I feel honored to have been his friend for so many years. However long between contacts it was as happy as the day we first met. We'll all miss this truely great man.

Lou & Stacy Schwalbendorf

February 18, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Mike, he had a great sense of humor.
I know that he will be missed by many at the VA Medical Center.
My condolences to the family and friends of Mike.
God Bless!!!

Lou & Stacy Schwalbendorf

Jim Nelson

February 18, 2010

Oh the arguments we used to have me being a Browns fan. Mike your in a good place now. My condolences to the family.

Ed & Rose Fischer

February 18, 2010

Donna, Duck and Mitch;
Words cannot express the sadness Rose and I feel at this time. Mike was a true friend who was always there for us. We are very proud to have called him our friend and we will miss him a lot. He truly was "one of a kind".

Butch Kabasinski

February 18, 2010

Mitch & Family,
Mike was one special person & we had alot of fun together. Even in Viet Nam-I'm sure he told you the Tiger story.
I am so sorry for your loss but I'm sure he is in good hands now.
I'll keep him in my prayers & your family to.

Butch Kabasinski

David Vandercoy

February 18, 2010

Michaels passing saddens all who knew him. I met him many years ago and treasured our friendship. He was generous and kind and as many have said quick to laugh and smile. He gave us more than he took. I hope his family can find some comfort from the fact that he was such a good and decent person who cared about and helped others his entire life.

Neil Woods

February 18, 2010

It's already been said over and over again, but it must be said at least one more time. Mike was a truly great guy and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Bill Lutz

February 18, 2010

I really only met Mike about 7 or 8 times at annual Daytona 500 parties. Mike was always someone I wanted to see there. He was as happy a person I could ever meet. My heart and prayers are with him and his entire family.

Cara Frick

February 18, 2010

I am extremely sorry for you loss. Mike was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. I worked with Mike at the Erie VA and am proud to have called him my friend. My deepest sympathy to the family.

Roberta Rey Richard Cass

February 18, 2010

Our thoughts are with Mike's family and many many friends. His smile, good nature and support will be missed until we meet again.

Marla Markov

February 18, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies. I will miss seeing your smiling face around town and at the many parties we have attended together. Mike. . . you will be greatly missed by everyone who knew you, especially me.

Ruth Kniowski

February 18, 2010

We never saw Mike without a big smile on his face a cheerfull greeting and a big hug. He will be sadly missed by so many. Our deepest sympathies to the Claypool family,
Dan & Ruth Kniowski

Maggie Benson

February 18, 2010

We are so sorry for you loss. Mike was a great guy and will be missed by all at the VA. His smile was as big as his heart. Keeping all of you in thought and prayer.

Tim & Barb Clark

February 18, 2010

So very sorry to hear about Mike's death. We thought so highly of him. He was a great guy. He always treated our nephew, Marty Clark so good. (He worked with Marty at the VA) Whenever you saw Mike he was happy and alway asked so sincerely how we all were doing. Heaven has received an angel back home....

James/Mae Corder

February 18, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to the Claypool family, We will dearly miss Mike.
Mike was more than a dear friend he was like a family member who we cherish. Mike is in heaven teaching angels the meaning of a friend, teach on my friend/my buddy.

Jean

February 18, 2010

Mike was truly one of the nicest people i have ever met, his smile and laugh will never be forgotten. I feel privileged and honored to have known him, rest in peace Mike and god bless. My deepest sympathy to the Claypool family.

Michael Buffalo

February 18, 2010

I worked with Mike at the VA,It is a tragedy that God has taken him before anyone was ready to let him go. Mike will be missed by all who knew him. To his family-Please accept my deepest sympathies.

WALLACE CROSBY

February 18, 2010

TO THE CLAYPOOL FAMILY
MIKE WILL BE TRULY MISSED BY ALL OF HIS VA FAMILY. MAY HE NOW FIND COMFORT IN THE ARMS OF THE LORD.

Lynn Trombetta

February 18, 2010

It was his laugh I loved the most it was so powerful you couldn't help but laugh with him. My deepest sympathies to his family and close friends. He was a wonderful person with a caring heart and he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

Julia R

February 18, 2010

Family of Mike, at this difficult time, please know that, Mike was a wonderful example, to many. Mike always greeted everyone with a smile, and kind word, and caring attitude.
Mike had so many friends, and this is a reflection, of your love. Sincerely, Julia (va)

Rose Dalbora

February 18, 2010

My deepest sympathy to Mike's family, Mitch, parents, friends, etc. I knew Mike for a long time and he was always a wonderful, caring, interested person. He will be woefully missed by many, Love Amy Fischer and Rose and Donald D'Albora. God be with you.

Beth Sahlmann

February 17, 2010

My deepest sympathy to Mike's family. We will miss Mike's smile and warm greetings at the VA.

Joe Santabene

February 17, 2010

To Mike's family you have our deepest sympathies.WE talked about a month ago.He is in our prayers.Joe&Sandie Santabene

Mary Trombetta

February 17, 2010

To the Claypool family.... You have my deepest sympathies. Mike was a great guy and friend. it's not going to be the same on Saturdays at Urbaniak's without him popping in. I will truely miss him and oh.... that belly laugh when he got going. Never a bad memory. Hope he's riding that Harley somewhere in the sky. Warmest thoughts are with you at this time.

John (Chilly and Kay Chilcott

February 17, 2010

We are sorry to hear about your loss. Mike was always a happy guy and would always be the first person to help someone who needed help. he always talked about his parents and back home. He will be greatly missed.

Rick & Sandi Burr

February 17, 2010

To family and friends of Mike Claypool:

The world is a darker place today without Mike. We never knew Mike to say an unkind word or even have an argument. He was the nicest guy who always had a good word for someone, listened intently, and had the most amazing laugh!

We are very thankful that we had the opportunity to share time with Mike: we are better people for it.

Thanks, Mike, for being our friend!

February 17, 2010

Our deepest sympathies are extended to Mike's family . Mike was truly a great friend and will be missed immensely. Please have comfort in knowing he's now with the Lord and in the company of many good friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of great sadness. Love Sandy Terry, Dan,Erin ,Sean Zuba and Theresa

Joe and Cindy Wenzel

February 17, 2010

I am so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

February 17, 2010

Mitch and Family....

Michael has been my friend for more than half my lifetime....we shared laughs, and good times as well as some dark times. Much too good of a man to ever be forgotten. Remembering Mike will always bring me a smile. I will miss his laughter.
May he be surrounded by all those he loved who have gone before him.....

Cathy Norris
Erie

Julie Newcome

February 17, 2010

To the Claypool family, you have my deepest sympathies. When I started working at the VA, Mike was one of the first people to make me feel welcomed. The friendship we had carried on from there. He was a great guy and will be sadly missed.

Andrea Dembski

February 17, 2010

We are so sorry for your loss..We new Mike for a while and he was such a great person..He was always smiling and always talked to us..We will never forget you buddy..Love T.J. and Andrea Dembski..Erie Pa

Kathleen Hogan Paparelli

February 17, 2010

I like to think that wherever Mike is, he is riding in a little yellow jeep with the top down saying something like " Yins want to go for a ride?" cause thats how I'll always think of him. Sincere condolences to Mikes family & friends, Kathy Hogan Paparelli

Pam Lewis

February 17, 2010

Sorry for your loss, Michael was a wonderful person, he always had a smile on his face, He will be missed Pam Lewis ( Erie

Peggy Carson

February 17, 2010

My sympathy to Mike's family and friends. His smile and great attitude will be missed by all of us at the hospital!

David Tomski

February 17, 2010

Mike was a great person and a true friend. He will be sadly missed by all his friends and co-workers at the VA. Rest in peace my friend

Patty Fritz

February 17, 2010

Michael, I miss you already, the last time I saw you, I got a big kiss and hug...who would have known it would be the last. You touched so many lives and we all LOVE you, we will cherish every memory. LOVE, PATTY

David Jankowski

February 17, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Sonia

February 17, 2010

Claypool family: Please accept my sympathy. Mike always put a smile on my face and will be dearly missed. May you find peace in Gods grace.

Paul Fullerton

February 17, 2010

What a Brother Mike was.Always glad to see you with that terrific smile.God be with you Brother,till we meet again.
Paul Fullerton

Joan Papalia-Eisert

February 17, 2010

May Mikey now rest in peace, joy, and glory. I was blessed to have his friendship these past 32 years. Back in the day at Smuggler's Wharf we shared much with one another, mostly about the horrors of war. Then in recent years he facilitated my husband's and my opportunities to give concerts for the men and women at the Erie V.A. Hospital. Mikey's heart had many layers; loyalty, insight, and courage... he will be missed.
God bless him, and all of his family and friends,
Joan Papalia-Eisert
Youngsville, PA

Linda Hodubski

February 17, 2010

Condolences to the Claypool and Johnson family. Mike will be missed at the VA.

Brain & Dawn Bailey

February 17, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010

Linda Kowalczyk

February 17, 2010

My condolences to Mike's family. It was always a pleasure to see his smiling face. He will be missed by many!!

ELMER SMITH

February 17, 2010

MIKE WAS A GREAT GUY AND WILL MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM.THE WORLD IS JUST A LITTLE BIT EMPTIER NOW. REST IN PEACE MIKE.

Ron Rodrigues

February 17, 2010

We didn't know him long, but his smile is in our hearts. He will be missed @ the 3rd St. Falcons.

Mitch - you had a pretty cool brother!

Ron and Marcia

Sharon Smith

February 17, 2010

Dear Mitch ~~~ I'm so sorry. I'm shocked to see Mike has passed away.
I know how very special he has always been to you. Please accept my sympathies. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,

ANDREA KEMPISTY

February 17, 2010

I SEEN MIKE EVERY DAY AT THE VA AND HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE FOR ME AND LIGHTENED UP THE WHOLE OFFICE WITH HIS PRESENCE. YOU COULDN'T HELP BUT ENJOY HIS COMPANY AND SPIRIT. HE WILL BE SADLY MISSED BY ALL OF US. I PRAY THAT HIS FAMILY BE COMFORTED BY KNOWING THEY ARE IN OUR EVERY THOUGHT AND PRAYER. DEEPEST SYMPATHIES.

Kim Huff

February 17, 2010

If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
And bring you home again.

Michael touched the hearts of many-
He was a true angel and brought unprecendented joy and happiness to all he came close to.
Rest in peace my friend

Sandy Dieter

February 17, 2010

My sympathies to the Claypool Family...
Mike was a true gentleman with a gentle soul. He will be greatly missed at his VA home.

Janet Stewart

February 17, 2010

My condolences to all that Mike touched by his supportive love of family, friends and life. He was like a brother to me or most of my adult life and will be deeply missed. He could organize a party to celebrate a good cause or a special occasion like no one else I know. I'm thankful for the love he gave that touched my life.

Lynnsie Fullerton

February 17, 2010

Please accept our deepest sympathy,Mike was truely a unique person.He was always there willing to help anyone,and we always will
remember his great smile.He could bring a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day.Mike will be greatly missed.
Paul&Lynnsie Fullerton

Paul Thon & Family

February 17, 2010

Our prayers and condolences go out to Mike’s family and dear friends. It truly saddened my family to hear the news of his passing. Mike was a terrific person whom was full of life. He had such a charismatic personality that you immediately would be drawn in to his love of life attitude. Mike will be missed and always remembered.

Paul Matters

February 17, 2010

Our condolences to the Claypool family. Mike was such a loving & very giving person. Rest in peace my friend.

love,
Paul & Dianne

Richard Hayes

February 17, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Ronald Schryver

February 17, 2010

To a great guy,you will be missed

love,
Ronnie & Rosemary

Deb Kuna

February 17, 2010

My condolences go out to the family. My prayers will be for MIke's family and friends during this time. Mike always had a smile and a warm greeting everytime I encountered him in the halls and elevators at work. His presence will surely be missed.

February 17, 2010

We will alway have special memories of Mike. Condolences to Mike s family.
John and Midge Ginader - Erie, Pa.

Laura Merritt

February 17, 2010

I am sorry for your loss. I will miss Mike's smile and friendship - he always offered both so easily. He was a great co-worker at the VA. We will miss him terribly.

David Kerner Sr

February 17, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I had work at the VA with Mike.

jim houseknecht

February 17, 2010

your be sadly missed, our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

John & Priscilla Irwin & Lecker

February 17, 2010

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

Ron Bukowski

February 17, 2010

My sincere condolences to the Claypool family.

My family and I live across the street from Mike. Mike was the best neighbor that you could ask for. He was always there for anyone who needed him. Always willing to lend a hand in any situation. He will be missed by all of his many freinds.

The Bukowski Family

Scott Kager

February 17, 2010

My deepest sympathies in this time of sorrow. I worked with Mike at the VA Medical Center for many years. He always had a smile on his face and laughter in his heart. He will be greatly missed.

February 17, 2010

Condolences to the Claypool Family.
Grant and Gina Carson.

Jim & Norma Cyparski

February 17, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

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