Claire F. Story, 87

With great peace, Claire F. Story went home to be with Jesus on Tuesday, May 7, 2013.

A longtime resident of Spokane, Claire spent many years touching lives as a Boy Scout leader, Public School teacher (Balboa, Emerson and Logan), and swimming instructor (Story’s Swim School where a generation of kids learned to swim).

Claire also spent time working as a Realtor and as a Boy Scout Executive. Some of his hobbies included fishing, woodworking, travel and pottery.

Claire grew up as a Boy Scout and served in the Navy during World War II. He studied at Eastern Washington Teachers College and Whitworth University.

In 1947 he married Jeanne M. Mills. They shared 59 wonderful years together, which included raising two children, and the births of their six cherished grandchildren. The loss of Jean was devastating to Claire.

Claire had a heart as big as all outdoors and was always reaching out to others. Until his health would no longer allow, he worked as a volunteer at the Spokane Food Bank, and helped others run errands or just get out for lunch. It was not uncommon to see Claire with a carload headed out for the afternoon.

In July 2011, Claire married Sue Fall and moved to Coeur d’Alene, where he shined anew. They became active members at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Hayden where he participated in Bible studies, sang in the choir and spearheaded the Tables of Eight program.

Sue’s children and grandchildren were fully embraced by Claire. He never missed a beat, stepping in to fill the gap as Grandpa, whether for fishing, recitals, birthdays or competitions. The kids’ invitations were always met with, “Of course I’ll be there, when is it?”

Claire will be missed by all who knew him. A memorial service celebrating Claire’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 14, 2013, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Hayden. A meal will follow. Memorials may be sent in his honor to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church or Hospice of North Idaho.