Claude W. Thayer, of Oxford, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2017. He was 84.

Claude was the beloved husband of the late Frances, with whom he spent 60 ½ years of marriage and 2 ½ years together as high school sweethearts; and the loving father of Claude Thayer Jr., Rose (Lynn) Siegers, Gail Ferguson, Diana (Greg) Fleming and Dawn Dunfee (Smitty).

He is also survived by his companion Cara Reeder; 17 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; and many great-great-grandchildren.

On July 5, 1974, on a picnic table under a shade tree, Claude and Frances began the New Life Church of God in Oxford. From 1977-1979 they spent time in Kenya doing Missionary work.

Following Claude’s retirement, a new chapter began with ministry at the Cass City Living Word Church of God and later with nursing home and senior ministry.

Funeral services were held May 16 at the New Life Church of God in Oxford, with Mark Kalfayan officiating. Interment at Lakeville Cemetery. www.sparksgriffin.com