H. CLAIR LILLEY
H. Clair Lilley March 31st, 1928-December 29th, 2011 Clair was born in Newton Kansas to Roger and Ethel Lilley. Clair's first love was flying airplanes, so as a teenager he worked at the local airport to earn enough money to pay for flying lessons. He graduated from Eldorado High School in 1946, and joined the military later that year. He was deployed to Japan and recalled for the Korean War. Upon his return he discovered his second love, and married Ruby Lee Schlesinger in 1949, and together they raised their son Roger Clair in Seattle, Washington. Clair pursued a successful career as an airline pilot for United Airlines, from which he retired as a captain in 1988. Upon his retirement, Clair devoted his time to family as well as some of his greatest pleasures, including travel, golf, and -most of all- fishing and tying flies. He spent many memorable days with his family at his cabin in the foothills of Mt. Adams gardening, hunting, and fishing. Clair had a unique ability to be both rational and creative, and will be remembered for his honesty, integrity, loyalty, and zest for life. His life was a journey traveled honorably and deliberately, and is peppered with triumph, adventure, and beloved family and friends. Clair was passionate and outspoken, often simultaneously. His favorite quote was; "never give up." Clair was preceded in death by Ruby, his wife of 50 years, who passed away in 2000. He is survived by his wife MaryLou Lilley, his son Roger, his granddaughter Carlee Tulett (Nathan), and three great-grandsons, Reid, Roger, and Finn. Memorials may be made to Franciscan Hospice House, 2901 Bridgeport Way, University Place, WA 98466. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.
Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) from December 31, 2011 to January 1, 2012
Thanks Chris Fant
