George F. deClaire

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing this past Saturday of George F. deClaire, born September 27, 1931, to Benjamin and Maud deClaire of Grosse Pointe, Michigan. One of seven children, George was sent off to military school early on, and later attended St. Paul on the Lake High School, where he was elected president of the graduating class of 1949.

After completing understudies at University of Detroit, he was accepted to both Harvard and Yale, and received academic scholarship to University of Michigan Law School where he graduated summa cum laude and would begin his 54 year career as a practicing lawyer. He joined the U.S. Air Force where he rose to the rank of major, served as a JAG officer and remained in the reserves until his death. He went on to become a municipal judge in Boca Raton, Florida.

George is preceded by his loving wife Joyce of 42 years, and survived by his six sons and their wives; George Jr. and Kathleen Shea of Crystal River, FL, Roger "Don" of Delray Beach, FL, Christopher and Ellen of Delray Beach, FL, Paul and Lisa of Boynton Beach, FL, Marc and Tonya of Cookeville, TN, Michael and Terry of Deerfield Beach, FL and loving daughter Kerry and husband Bruce Goldman of West End, NC, along with 11 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He was devoted to the Catholic church and enjoyed spending time with his family, particularly during the holidays. So whether it be bringing the largest Christmas tree home from the lot, or ringing the bell at holiday dinners, he passed down traditions to his children and grandchildren that will be forever cherished in our hearts.