Claude Wesley Smock

Claude Wesley Smock was born January 15th, 1952, passed away at home on December 8th, 2024. Claude was born in Napa, CA to George and Lavanda Smock. He was the middle of 5 boys, O'Larry (Sandy), George (Susan), Burns, and Whick (Sandy). They left Napa when Claude was in the second grade and purchased a ranch on the north bank of Stony Creek where Claude and his brothers ran the creek like a pack of wild dogs. The family ranch was a place of hard work and many escapades. It was Claude's favorite place to live.
He graduated from Orland High School in 1970 where he played football. After high school he worked many jobs. He was a jack of all trades: hay holler, welder, backhoe owner and operator, construction, ranch hand, olive grower, OUWA maintenance man, Simplot and John Taylor service man to name a few. In 1987 Claude met and married the love of his life, Kelly (Forbes) Smock. Claude transformed an old milk farm on the family ranch into their forever home where they raised their son Allen.
Claude was a faithful and loving husband and father. He was a devoted friend to many and would give the shirt off his back. To know him was to love him. Many would describe him as hard working, trustworthy, and caring. A guy who really loved his dogs. Claude was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, fishing, and dirt bike riding. He was one of the founders of the West Valley Bowhunters.
Claude is preceded in death by his parents, brother O'Larry, niece Natalie and in laws Marvin and Darlene Forbes. He is survived by his wife Kelly, son Allen, brothers George, Burns and Whick, brother in laws Brent (Kelly), Scott (Barb), Wade (Gina) and many nieces and nephews including many greats.
He will be missed deeply by many!
A celebration of Claude's Life will be held
Saturday, February 15th, 2025, at 11:00 AM
Oak Hollow Farms
6207 Road 7
Orland, CA, 95963
More information call 530-865-4512