Michael Claus

Michael J. Claus, age 74, passed away peacefully at home on January 5th, 2025. Mike was born in Bellingham, Washington in 1950 to Melvin and Joan (Greene) Claus. He graduated in 1968 from Bellingham High School and directly entered Western, achieving BS degrees in Business Administration and Geography. At eight, trading in his accordion for a drum set, Mike became an accomplished percussionist, playing a wide range of rhythms with his father's dance band, accordionist Mel Claus. During Junior High School he began working as a meat cutter in his grandfather's family business, Claus Meat's, and continued there thru and after college. Turning down partnership in the business, he opted to began his own career in Real Estate and Property Management. Later he became a HUD County Housing Inspector, remaining there until he retired. Mike and Linda entered into wedlock, on June 21, 1975, at the 1st Congregational Church. Mike was the devoted husband of Linda's for over 49 years and the supportive father to Elizabeth and Jason. Their family was completed with their pets; dogs Aussie and Rowdy, and their cat named Purdy, all living in longevity. They always loved to go camping together, especially in the remote areas of Eastern Washington or on Whidbey Island. Mike always had a project, building and renovating houses or repairing automobiles. He also loved to cook, providing mouth watering feasts for their family and friends. He was an avid reader and always with crossword puzzles in hand. Most of Michael's relatives are deceased. Surviving are: wife Linda, daughter Elizabeth, son Jason (fiancé Michelle), sister Patty, nephew David Duryee (Sara), sister-in-law Marian (Bill) Paananen, nephews James (Adelle), and Andrew, fostered brother John Turnupseed, and other relatives and friends. No services are planned at this time. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Michael, please visit our Tree Store.