Howard S. Claus

Howard Shelby Claus was received into glory on May 13, 2015 at the age of 90. 

Howard was born to Henry and Sarah Claus in Peoria, IL, on September 22, 1924. After graduating from high school in Peoria, he enrolled in the University of Illinois. While attending the university, Howard was drafted to serve in WWII in the Army Air Corps in Italy as a medic, tending to wounded soldiers. After being honorably discharged from the Army, Howard attended Hope College in Holland, MI, where he met his wife Lucille Riekse. The two were married on March 4, 1949, while attending college, and remained married for 66 years, until his death.

Howard then attended Columbia University in New York City, where he received his master’s degree in Hospital Administration. Upon graduation, Howard accepted a position as Assistant Director at Butterworth Hospital, where he faithfully served for over 20 years. Later, Howard was offered the position of Executive Director of Kent Community Hospital. He oversaw construction of the hospital and then remained for over 17 years. He went on to work as an interim director at various rural hospitals in West Michigan.

Howard was the proud father of three sons, Henry David and twins Thomas Howard and Timothy Howard, all of whom reside in West Michigan. He adored his children and grandchildren and was a devout Christian who instilled the values of the faith in his family. Howard also loved “the farm,” a family gathering place where he found much peace and often entertained friends and family with good fishing and good food. Howard was a kind and gentle man who loved people unconditionally and was passionate about serving others. He served as a deacon at Immanuel Reformed Church,  an elder at Fifth Reformed Church, and a board member of many community organizations including the Holland Home, Wedgewood Christian Services, and the Hospital Chaplaincy board.

He is survived by his wife Lucille Julia Riekse Claus; sons David (Karen) Claus, Thomas (Nancy) Claus, and Timothy (Terry) Claus; grandchildren William, Adam (Laura), Daniel (Grace), Vanessa, Victoria, Allison (Jeff), Laura, Ryan, and Emily; and great-granddaughter Abbie. Howard would have rejoiced in meeting the two additional souls soon to join the family.  He is preceded in death by his sister Eleanor. A faithful man, Howard took great pride in having four ministers in his family, Rev. Nancy Claus, Rev. Daniel and Rev. Grace Claus, and soon-to-be Rev. Laura Claus, all of whom will officiate the service. The family thanks Casey, Pam, and Terry, the home care team, for their tender care of Howard.

The funeral service will be held on Monday  at 11:00am at Fifth Reformed Church 2012 Griggs St. S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Visitation will immediately precede the services at 10:00 am. A lunch to celebrate Howard’s life will be served immediately following. Memorials for Howard should be given in his name to the Holland Home. 

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