Clarence Amundson

Clarence E. Amundson, 88, of Clermont died Sunday, February 2, 2014 at the Good Samaritan Center in West Union.  Clarence Edward, the son of Ole and Nina (Loftsgard) Amundson, was born July 29, 1925 in rural Clermont, Iowa.  He was baptized and confirmed at East Clermont Lutheran Church, rural Clermont. Clarence graduated from Clermont High School and graduated from lineman school training in Chicago, Illinois.  Clarence was a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  He farmed for several years east of Clermont before becoming a lineman and manager for ACE telephone.  He retired from ACE in 1987.  Clarence was united in marriage with Johanna Anderson on September 18, 1954 at a Baptist Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa.  To this union, three children were born.

Clarence was a lifelong member of East Clermont Lutheran Church. He served on the church council, was a member of the choir and Lutheran Brotherhood, and he was the church custodian for thirty years.  He was a member of the Sheehan-Olson American Legion Post #375 in Clermont. Clarence was a member of the Luren Singers in Decorah for over twenty-five years.  During his time with the Luren Singers, Clarence was able to travel to Norway three times and he was honored to shake hands with the King of Norway.

Clarence enjoyed beekeeping, raising chinchillas, flying airplanes, camping, traveling, and having coffee and spending time with friends. He also sang at many funerals and weddings in the Clermont area.

Clarence is survived by his wife, Johanna; three children, Caren (Chuck) Reaves of Missoula, Montana; Eric (Diane) Amundson of Humboldt, Iowa; and Olin (Karen) Amundson of New Hampton, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Allison, Rachel, and Michael Reaves; Scott, David, and Peder Amundson; and Timothy and Alec (fiancée, Rachel) Amundson; two brothers, Art Amundson of West Union and Kenny (Ruth) Amundson of Clermont; one sister, Norene Landsgard of Clermont; and one sister-in-law, Marjorie Amundson of Postville.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Almer, Morris, and Clifford Amundson; and two sisters-in-law, Norma and Hildur Amundson.

Celebration of Life Services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2014 at the East Clermont Lutheran Church in rural Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Ron Roberts as the officiant.

Visitation:  Friends called on Wednesday, February 4, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the East Clermont Lutheran Church rural Clermont and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Inurnment was held at a later date in the East Clermont Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Memorials in Clarence’s honor may be made to the Luren Singing Society or the East Clermont Lutheran Church Music Ministry.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home in Clermont, Iowa is assisting the family with the arrangements. 

Condolences may be left at www.graufuneralhomes.com.

       7u7