FELSTEAD, Clare

Clare Felstead was a loving husband, father and friend as well as an active member of the community for over 45 years. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, December 23, 1918 and died March 4, 2004 at home with his family. Clare was a Veteran of World War II, reaching the rank of Major in the Artillery. He served as President of the Illinois Drycleaning Association before moving from Oak Lawn, Ill to Mesa with his family in 1959. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Dot. He is survived by his sister Florence Allan; his daughters Denise Johnson, Dorme' and husband Larry James, son Ron and wife Pam Felstead. Seven grandchildren, Melissa Cooley, Jeremy Felstead, Kristin Brossman, David James, Kristen Johnson-Edmonds, Scott Johnson and Laura Johnson. There are six Great grand children. Clare was an inspiration to many in his community. He was a local businessman for over forty years. He served in various positions, including President Mesa Chamber of Commerce, President YMCA Board, President and Chairman of the United Way, President of Mesa Kiawanis. He was on the Maricopa County Highways Commission and the Maricopa County Parks Board. For his many hours of service he received the 1973 Mesa Man of the Year Award. He continued to serve his community through Mesa Foundation, Tri-City Community Center, Child Crisis, East Valley Cancer Satellite, Mesa Lutheran Hospital Board and Mesa Ho Ho Kams. His family, friends and community will miss him. A visitation was held at Bunker's Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way. A memorial service was at First Presbyterian Church, 161 N. Mesa Drive. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the Hospice of the Valley, East Office for their care and support. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice of the Valley, East Office, 2222 S. Dobson, Suite 40, Mesa, Arizona 85202. Published in the Arizona Republic on 3/7/2004.