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Charles Curtis
Clawson
Dec 5, 1929 — Aug 2, 2026
Los Altos
Thursday
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Starts at 11:00 am (Pacific time)
Friday
Alta Mesa Memorial Park
Starts at 11:30 am (Pacific time)
Charles Curtis Clawson died peacefully in his home in Los Altos, California, on August 2, 2026. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilynn “Terry” Clawson, and by his two brothers, Darcy and Jack. He was the last living member of his family, and also his wife’s generational line.
He is survived by his four children: Katherine Strong, Carol Jayne Cox, Ann Marie Halverson, and Kent Clawson. Also included are 12 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren.
He was born in Seattle, Washington, to his parents James Harold Clawson and Leora Gibbs Clawson. He attended schools in Seattle, and enjoyed his youth with family and friends. After high school, he attended Brigham Young University.
During college, Charles took a three-year break to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Sweden. This experience was especially meaningful to him because of his Scandinavian ancestry and inspired a lifelong interest in the Swedish language.
While back at college, Charles met Terry Kent, fell in love with each other, and were happily married. There, they began a partnership that became the foundation of their family life together.
His military service began with ROTC in college and continued in the United States Air Force, where he served as a Lieutenant and worked with government contracts involving aircraft manufacturing companies.
After his military service, Charles worked for Lockheed Corporation. He later completed a master’s degree from Stanford University and, following his years with Lockheed, built a career in commercial real estate in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Charles was devoted to his wife and family. Together, he and Terry created a home life centered in faith, education, wholesome recreational activities, and personal development—values that shaped and blessed their family throughout the years. A most enjoyable time was with the extended Clawson relatives at family reunions. Favorite times on lake Sammamish, created fun and lasting memories for everyone.
Among his many interests and hobbies were high school football, tennis, handball, and forty years of growing beautiful dahlias. He also served in many church callings, giving important service and support to others.
His life was dedicated to family, faith, and country. He served others, offering love and support in times of need, and always brightened conversations with his witty and humorous comments. He will be missed dearly by those who knew and loved him, but feelings of gratitude and happiness for him will accompany him into eternal life.
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