Harold Alford Claus
Photo
Harold's obituary
Harold Alford Claus
March 10, 1929 - December 25, 2023
It is with heavy hearts we share the news of the passing of Harold Alford Claus, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and treasured pillar of the Stuart, Florida community. He passed peacefully in his sleep surrounded by family on Christmas morning, 2023, at the age of 94.
Harold was born in Signal, Oregon, and grew up on the family farm near Lowell, Oregon. His life was a testament to hard work, ingenuity, creativity, and unwavering commitment to his community. He was a man of many skills, working as a lumberjack, mechanic, well rig operator, and entrepreneur. In the early 1970s, he founded Stuart Air. In the 1980s, with Jill & Dr. Daniel Stalker and Susan Sanford, he became a partner in Holiday Decorations, a beloved Christmas store in downtown Stuart. Harold was the heart and soul of this venture, brightening the city of Stuart with his decorative genius. He adorned locations like Premier Realty, Cedar Pointe Shopping Center, Martin Downs Country Club, Summerfield Development, Community Savings Banks, and Sun Banks with his enchanting decorations. His dedication was unparalleled, working from dawn to dusk, and then starting all over again the next day. In his later years, he continued to stay active in his community, working at Publix as a customer service clerk.
Beyond his professional achievements, Harold was known for his warm and welcoming presence. Those who stepped through the doors of Holiday Decorations were invariably greeted by his smiling face. He was a master solitaire player who brought laughter and light even in challenging times. He valued family and friendships above all, and infused joy and spirit into the lives of those he touched.
Harold's commitment to service was exemplified by his lifelong involvement with the Boy Scouts of America. He passionately guided two of his sons to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, instilling in many young minds the true essence of being a Scout.
Harold is lovingly remembered by his family. He is survived by his sons, Harold Ivon Claus (Amy) of Ceres, CA; George Joseph Claus (Karen) of North Las Vegas, NV; Michael Charles Claus of Stuart, FL; Jeffrey Alan Claus (Jeanne) of Woodbridge, VA; and Raymond Albert Claus of North Las Vegas, NV. He leaves a legacy of 12 grandchildren: Tamra Claus McCarthy (Jim), Stella Claus, Ivon Claus (Kalyssa), Amber Bearden (Joe), George Joseph Claus, Jr. (Danielle), Candy Claus (Shane Turner), Steve Claus, Jr. (Rebecca), Gregory Claus, Maryann Claus, Jennifer Claus, Rebecca Claus, Les Claus (Erin), and 21 great-grandchildren: Iain McCarthy, TJ Claus, Ashley Hancock, Christopher Claus, Ciara Claus, Henry Claus, Seth Claus, Chet Watson, Wyatt Bearden, Kinsley Bearden, Daxam Bearden, Maisie Bearden, Justin Claus, Zachary Claus, Troy Turner, Madden Wentworth, Jordan Abrom, Jeremiah Parilla, Kenneth Claus (Jordan), Sinclair Claus, and Zachary Claus.
Harold was preceded in death by his son Steven Mathew Claus (Jinny) of Port Saint Lucie, FL, and his siblings: George Stanley Claus, Ethel Matheson, Pearl Claus, Jessie Claus, and Mary Garcia.
As we bid farewell, we will remember a man who lived for the holiday spirit, touching lives with his artistry, humor, kindness and bright smile. We celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, hard work, and service to others. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. We invite you to share your cherished memories of Harold as a tribute to his life.
Harold, for the final time, Merry Christmas. Your spirit and legacy in our hearts will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.
Send to someone
Want to stay updated?
Share this memorial website
Share with others
