BIO
‘Clem’ence Carl Claus, was born 1 October 1919, on a farm west of Smithland, to Edwin and Jennie (Callaghan) Claus. Siblings are: Mildred Hagan, Lenora Burkhart, Edalene McNutt, and Richard Claus. He attended country school west of Smithland.
Entered the Army, 13 February 1942. Trained at Camp Forrest, Tennessee, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Fort Lewis, Washington. Trained with 33rd Division Field Artillary. Sailed 6 July 1943, from Camp Stoneman, San Francisco, California, to Maui, Hawaii. Then to Finchaven, New Guinea, then Morotai and from there to Luzon in the Philippines. Served overseas from 6 July 1943 to 29 November 1945. Discharged at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, as a Tec 5.
Discharge papers read, ‘In the Pacific Theater of Operations, assigned to the 210 Field Artillary Battalion. Drove a 2 1⁄2 ton six by six truck, hauling a 105 millimeter Howitzer.
Pulled gun into positions and assisted crew members in firing the gun. Most of driving was under blackout conditions and over all types of terrain.’
Clem married Macil Hall, 2 January 1943, in Tacoma, Washington. Their children were twin daughters, Sharmel (died at birth) and Sheryl, and Kent. They have four grandchildren, Jason and Jill Claus, Brian and Sharmel Oddo; and seven great grandchildren, Tyler, Brandon, Shanon, Mike, Casey, Alissa, and Addison.
Clem returned home to farm where he was born. Retired and moved to Smithland, October 1983. Clem enjoyed playing cards with his friends and most of all he dearly loved his family.
Clem passed away at home, 26 July 2000, at age 80 years, 9 months. He is buried in the Little Sioux Cemetery, in Smithland.
Submitted by his wife, Macil Hall Claus.
