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Donald Claffey, age 74, passed away on Monday October 22, 2007 at
his home in Polson. Don was born on April 10, 1933 at Polson, MT to
Ernest and Ruby Claffey. He attended school in Polson and graduated
from Polson High School in 1952. Don took his freshman year of high
school off to “work in the woods.”
 Don
served his country with the US Army during the Korean War from 1953
to 1954. Don was active with the Ironworker Union and worked the
Alaskan Pipeline. He was a “snowbird” ironworker working in
California and Arizona during the winter. Don and Karen spent the
last eight winters at their home in Mohave Valley, Arizona. Don was
a Lifetime member of the VFW and a Cootie member. He also belonged
to the National Horseshoe Pitching Association, and loved to pitch
horseshoes and compete in tournaments. Don also helped with the
Polson Boxing Club and was quite accomplished (commented before
commentators did). Rodeo kept Don from playing college basketball
and a promising acting career. Don had quite a “hook shot” and loved
basketball. He had several parts in 26 Men. If anyone has access to
this movie, Karen would love to have a copy. Don enjoyed watching
sports on TV. He loved working with horses and was very willing and
anxious to tackle all. Their herd would follow the pied piper with
his pocket full of pellets. Don loved to create anything out of
nothing. He created metal tree picture frames that could not be
recreated. His parents Ernest and Ruby Claffey, and his only son “K.O.”
Kenneth Orion Claffey preceded Don in death. He is survived by his
wife Karen of Polson, his stepsons Erik (Anisa) and Edward Lanphier
of Plainfield, IL, his granddaughters Breena, Whitney, and Leah and
numerous cousins. A memorial service will be held on Friday October
26, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. at the VFW Hall with Deacon Wes Vert
officiating. A reception will follow the services at the VFW Hall.
Memorials may be made in Don’s name to the Humane Society in your
area, Lake County Search & Rescue, or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Grogan Funeral
Home & Crematory. Condolences may be sent to the family at
www.groganfuneralhome.com.
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