Passed away at the age of 88 peacefully at home on Friday, Feb. 27, 2015, in Boise, ID. Claude was born March 26, 1926 in Lewiston, UT, to Lawrence and Millie Baird. He was the youngest of six children. He was raised on a small farm where he learned the value of hard work. He joined the Marine Corps in the “Greatest Generation” in 1943, joining both his brothers, Demar and Robert.
After his service with WWII, he married Geraldine Talbot in Lewiston, UT, on May 28, 1947. They moved to American Falls, ID, where Claude managed a farm co-op and also purchased a Massey Ferguson Farm Implement Dealership for many years.
In 1967 the family moved to Boise, ID, where he purchased a small petroleum dealership. Before his retirement he had grown Baird Oil Company into one of the largest privately owned businesses in Idaho. He was a successful businessman, and was admired for his warm genuine personality, his great attitude and his positive outlook on life.
Claude’s love for his family was always evident in every way. He never missed any event that his children were involved in while they were growing up. His children are forever grateful for his encouragement, patience, kindness, humility and generosity throughout their lives.
Claude loved working and hunting on his farm in Parma, ID. He enjoyed all Boise State athletics. He was a charter member of the Bronco Athletic Association and served several terms on the board of directors.
Claude’s wife Geri passed away October 15, 2010, and a grandchild, Rylie, also predeceased him. He is survived by their three children: Dennis (Rose), Dixie, Hal (Deanne, deceased), four grandchildren, Christopher (Melanie), Kelli (Brett Miller), Jamie (Michael Madden), and Derek, and five great-grandchildren.
In addition, our family is grateful for Claude’s companion of the past few years, Gwen Galey, who splashed a ray of sunshine on his life.
A private family service will take place Thursday, March, 5, and a celebration of his life will be held immediately after at Hillcrest Country Club in Boise, 4 to 7 p.m., for all friends and family.
Condolences may be shared at Cloverdale Funeral Home website (www.cloverdalefuneralhome.com). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bronco Athletic Association, Claude and Geraldine Baird Endowment Fund for student athletes.
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