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Claudia Gail Combs

1955 - 2025

Claudia Gail Combs obituary, 1955-2025, Kelso, WA

BORN

1955

DIED

2025

Claudia Combs Obituary

Claudia Gail Combs

June 16, 1955 - June 16, 2025

Claudia Gail (Kallwick) Combs, peacefully passed away at home on her 70th birthday, Monday, June16, 2025 at her home in Kelso, Wash. with her husband and children right by her side.

She was born in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to Russell and Barbara (Fudge) Kallwick; moving to Longview, Wash. in June of 1963. She attended Mark Morris High School, graduating in 1973. After graduating from Western Business College, she successfully owned and managed Short Stop Store-N-Deli in Longview for 21 years. She took great pride in creating the cleanest, most well-stocked and friendliest store in town.

Claudia was a highly motivated and determined go-getter in anything she ever set her mind to accomplish in life. She had a natural affinity to anything gardening and flowers to create beautiful landscapes to enjoy year-around. She was always dependable; showing up when and wherever needed, with a big hug and often, one of her hearty breakfast casseroles in hand. She was an incredible cook, well known for her delicious meals as well as an icon at holiday family gatherings with her legendary peanut brittle, butter spritz cookies and lively laughter.

Claudia was a beloved wife, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother and friend. She is survived by her husband, Harold of 37 years; mother, Barbara; sisters, Terri (Jerry) Lappe; Tracy (Ken) Manning; Shelly (George) Alexander; sisters-in-law, Susan and Lori Combs; brother, Russell (Lisa) Kallwick; son, Douglas Dobyns; daughter, Kristen (Curtis) Pittman; step- son, Terry Combs; several nieces and nephews as well as four granddaughters whom she cherished fiercely and spoiled beyond words.

The family will be holding a private celebration of life to share and reminisce as well as travel to Coeur d'Alene in her honor, as it is a place where Claudia created countless life-time memories. The family gives a heart-felt thank you to PeaceHealth Longview Hospice and Susan Combs for their unwavering support during her final days. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating and/or volunteering at PeaceHealth Hospice or the American Cancer Association.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily News on Jun. 24, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Toni

June 25, 2025

I will never forget, her daughter, Kristin, went to nationals in Atlanta Georgia.
She won some money and gave each girl $100, there were 9 girls.
In those days $100 was a good amount of money.
She was so unselfish. Would supply water different things to the team.
She was a sweetheart.
She will be missed.

Debra Grauman

June 24, 2025

I remember our very early years the most, recess was the best!

Tracy Manning

June 24, 2025

I will miss Claudia beyond belief. Our frequent phone calls, holidays, and sense of humor will be missed most of all! I made strawberry jam today without you & realized this is just one of many things that will never be the same for me. Rest in peace dear sister.

Lonnie & Marcia Hage

June 24, 2025

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Claudia. She was always such a good friend greeting you with a huge smile and a hug. She will be missed by those who knew her well. Our prayers go out to her family and please know you are thought of and in our hearts during this difficult time. Love to all of you.

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