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Claude's obituary

Claude Raymond Windell left this earth for his next adventure on June 27th, 2025.

He was born on Oct 31, 1946 in Boissy L’ Aillerie, France, a product of World War II like so many in his generation. His father, Alexander Halley Windell,  was an American soldier and his mother, Janine Marthe Andrée Pilet, was a beautiful French girl. He came to the United States in 1956 with his parents, his grandmother Maman Pilet and his siblings Gary, Wendell, and Carole- with another brother Terry on the way. He attended San Martin Elementary School, Live Oak High School, the California Maritime Academy, and USF school of management.

His Career began at IBM, where he worked for more than 30 years- first as a technician and later as a field manager and salesman. After retirement, he began a second career as a Realtor with Coldwell Banker. This second career was his passion; being one of his father's professions, he felt spiritually connected to his dad through this work. He especially enjoyed creating relationships with his clients and helping people buy their first homes.

His hobbies and interests included hiking, cooking, woodworking, music, automobiles, ships, lighthouses, history, travel, and people. He volunteered for Habitat for Humanity as well as Senior Coastsiders Home Rehab Day. He also gave freely of himself to help his family and friends with all manner of tasks and projects.

Claude was a devoted and loving Father to his daughters Michelle and Leigh Ann, his stepson David and stepdaughter Lisa. He was a doting grandfather to Stephanie, Benjamin, Gavin and Jasper. He is survived by his children and grandchildren as well as brother Gary and sister Carole; nephews Michael, David, Gary, Christopher, Sean, and Eric; nieces Haily and Alyssa; and great-nieces Addison, Peyton, Autumn, Nicolette, and Ramona. He was preceded in death by his wife Donna, his parents, brother Windy and brother Terry.

In the spirit of Claude's love for his work, there will be an Open House celebration of his life at his home- 551 4th Street, Montara, California on Sunday January 18th, 2026 from 12:00-5:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Memorial Donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity.

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Helping hands

In lieu of flowers

Please consider a gift to Habitat for Humanity International.
$600.00
Raised by 2 people

Recent contributions

$500.00
Pete and Janet Koelsch
$100.00
Susan Farris
See all contributionsRight arrow

Recent contributions

$500.00
Pete and Janet Koelsch
$100.00
Susan Farris
See all contributionsRight arrow

Memories & condolences

Claude lived large and was always happy.  He was a great Dad and Grandpa and his family meant more to him than anything…
Claude lived large and was always happy.  He was a great Dad and Grandpa and his family meant more …
Claude lived large and was always happy.  He was a great Dad and…

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Claude Windell