Claude Ray Cleveland

Claude Ray Cleveland, 81, passed away peacefully on December 18th, 2013 of natural causes. He was born on May 10th, 1932, the only son of Claude Ira Cleveland and Emma Leona Fife Cleveland. He graduated from Pocatello High School in 1950 and was a well known boxer and was the best in his weight class. Following high school, he attended Idaho State College and later served in the United States Air Force. He served in the Korean War and received a special thanks from the Korean Government. He was also in the US Navy Reserves as Sea Bee . Claude met his loving wife, Ronnie Nelson, while playing piano at the historic Bannock Hotel and were later married on April 15th, 1960 in Pocatello. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple. Together they had 3 children, Trina, Gary, and Darren. Claude worked for 44 years for Union Pacific Railroad where he was secretary-treasurer for the Firemen and Oilers Union and also served as a Union representative. Claude was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He loved to play the piano and was self taught. He also loved traveling, spending time with his family, and visiting new places. He is proceeded in death by his wife Ronnie, son Darren, and his parents. Claude is survived by; Trina Cleveland of Pocatello, daughter ; Gary Cleveland of Pocatello, son; Kourtnie Dawn Cleveland of Pocatello, granddaughter; Tnesha Marie Cleveland of Utah, granddaughter; and Ellijah Eric LeeRay Cleveland of Utah, great grandson. When asked what his accomplishments were, he said his children, 2 beautiful granddaughters, daughter in law Lita, his lifelong best friend Boyd Packer, and the pride of his life his great grandson. Funeral arrangements will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, December 27, 2013 at Colonial Funeral Home, 2005 S. 4th Ave. Pocatello. A visitation will be held from 6 - 8 pm Thursday evening at Colonial Funeral Home and one hour prior to the services from 10- 11 AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mountain View cemetery. (208) 233-1500.