Henry Clay, 82 of Upper Lake, CA passed away on February 29th 2024. Henry, also known as Grumpy Old Bear or The old man passing thru was born on Oct. 4th 1941 in the family home in Upper Lake where he resided until his passing.

He was the eldest of his seven siblings. He was a hard worker, starting his first job at age 9 delivering papers with the help of his mom. Later he worked in the orchards, local cannery and then various sawmills. In his thirties he joined his father on the truck where he learned to drive and would do so into his 70’s. Towards the end of his career he started teaching others how to do the same even riding along. When he retired close to 70, he began a new adventure; staying home more, collecting cars, fixing up the house he was born in, and became the Unofficial Mayor of Upper Lake speaking with every passersby; Telling his stories of family, friends, and travels to those who would listen.

He is preceded in death by the love of his life Scheryne Knight, his two loving parents Everett and Margie Clay, brothers Everett “Bud” and Johnny along sister Martha Hicks, brother in laws Clay Wireman and Lee Clay and many four legged friends. He is survived by; three daughters Donna Clay (Scott Rodgers) of Las Vegas, Laura Gerrard (Chris Slotte) of Ukiah and Tami Pittman (Chris Parsons) of Virginia City. He had three grandchildren Jon Slotte, Mike and Shelbie Nail. Sisters Lorraine Clay, Margaret Wireman, and Mary Vance (Bob) and brother in law Melvin Hicks. Henry proudly served in the US Army after being drafted to Korea where he was stationed 3 miles from the DMZ. A celebration of life will be held at the Calpella Community Church at 3:00 pm on March 30th with a potluck to follow after the service. 

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