Obituary for Claude M. Adams

Claude M. Adams, August 15, 1942 - September 2, 2020

Longtime Alaskan, Claude M. Adams passed away in Tucson, AZ surrounded with family at his bedside. Claude was born in Gorizia, Italy to Daniela Scapin. In 1946, Claude immigrated to Montana with his mother and stepfather Frank Adams Sr. In 1957 Claude’s family moved to Alaska. Claude started his career in public service as a police officer at Anchorage International Airport in 1965. He began his tenure working for the Anchorage Fire Department in 1975 until he retired in 1995 out of Station #11 Badge #32. During Claude’s service with the Fire Department he was a part of the Emergency Response Dive Team and enjoyed serving his duty to public service. Every year at Christmas, Claude enjoyed being Santa Claus for the fire department and riding atop of the Santa Claus Express around Eagle River and Chugiak area. Claude met many lifelong friends during his career that meant the world to him. Claude loved his community and was always ready to help where there was a need. Claude was a member of the Elks Club and also an active member of the Knights of Columbus. The most important thing to Claude throughout his life, was his love for his family and their happiness. And he proved that over and over again. To the world’s Best Papa, Dad, Claude, you will be missed dearly. Rest in Peace. “Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God has laid out for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call; I turned my back and left it all.”

Claude is preceded in death by his (Mother) Daniela Adams, (Stepfather) Frank Adams Sr., (Brother) Patrick Adams, (Sister) Betty Adams, (Son) Jess Adams, and (Son-in-law) Shayne Manees. Claude is survived by his wife of 60 years, Retha F. Adams, (Son) Frank Adams, (Daughters) Tammy Manees, Theresa Adams, (Grandchildren) Branden Manees, Amanda Sandstrom, Jenna Manees, Brian Henman, Tristan Henman, Jacob Wash, Kelsiegh Simpson, (Brothers) John Lyne Adams, Frank Anna Adams, (Sisters) Mary Doug Wilber. Services will be held October 3rd, 2020 at Saint Mark Catholic Church in Oro Valley, Arizona at 10:00 am.