Claude M. Gove

CLAUDE M. GOVE
February 26, 1940 ˜ April 16, 2023

Claude M. Gove unexpectedly passed on Sunday, April 16, 2023.
He was born Feb. 26, 1940, in Omak, WA, an only child of Lilian and Oras Gove.
He graduated in 1958 from Omak High and was president of his class. He always said, ”once president of a smaller school, you are president for life.” He remained close to his classmates throughout the years. He was involved in all sports, but his Basketball skills awarded him a scholarship at Central Washington where he began his studies to obtain his masters degree in Education.
While in College he met the love of his life and best friend Dee, They quickly married and began their family in Ellensburg, WA. In 1970 the family of five moved to Vancouver. Claude was the Principal at five elementary schools, Sarah J. Anderson, Eisenhower, Peter S. Ogden, Harney, and Hazel Dell. Claude had a wonderful passion for education and immersed himself in every school blending imagination with humor to engage the students and staff. He often wore costumes to enhance the stories or learning process.
He was devoted and loved his family so much that he was involved in all of their activities from coaching little league, and soccer, Camp Fire Girls, tea parties with granddaughters, volleyball and basketball supporting grandson, and great granddaughter.
His love of life, laughter, and the gift of gab awarded him many lifelong friendships.
His kind nature was a magnet to many. There was never a stranger that didn’t become a friend. His many traditions included all outdoor activities, hunting, fishing, guys trips to sporting events, Blazer, Seahawk, Mariners, and Husky games.
Their home was ever open to friends and family as well as hosting multiple exchange students, some becoming family as well.
After retirement, he and his wife Dee started a business doing estate sales where he would enco former students. They often praised and affirmed that his guidance and mentorship assisted in their future success.
The Estate sale business provided the ability to take adventures and travel to more than 100 countries further enriching their knowledge of the world, and other cultures.
Although his passing was sudden, he lived a full and beautiful life that has been an example to us all. His mentorship and wisdom will be greatly missed, but he gets an A+ in a well lived life!
He leaves behind his wife, Dee; his children, Jill-Robb, Jerry-Carrie, and Martin; as well as his grandchildren, Torren, Taylor, Lauryn, and Amber; and great-granddaughter Gabriella. His lovely daughter Jodi passed in 2004. They are now laughing together in heaven.
His Celebration of life will be at 11 am on Saturday, May 13, at Messiah Lutheran Church: 905 NW 94th St. Vancouver, WA 98665. In Lieu of flowers, we thought dad would prefer a donation to the WEA Retired Scholarship. This is especially for students aspiring to be educators. Please send donations directly to their office at P.O. Box 820708 Vancouver, WA 98682. Please note in memory of Claude Gove. This will also be tax deductible.
Please share a memory @ www.columbian.com/obits