Union City

Vilas L. Claar, age 85 of Union City, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at the Laurels of Bedford in Battle Creek. He was born on March 25, 1926 in Branch County Michigan to Orville G. Claar and Stella C. (Mickolatcher) Claar.

Vilas farmed until 1967, and then worked at Union Pump for 25 years, Clark Equipment for 6 years, and then Kellogg’s for 18 years. Vilas enjoyed John Deere tractors and worked at the John Deere dealership in Athens off and on for years, always driving the huge lead tractor in the Athens homecoming Parade. Vilas enjoyed bowling, hunting, and fishing.

Vilas married Marjory E. Greuter on March 8, 1947 in Angola, Indiana. Vilas is survived by his wife of 64 years, 3 sons, Roy Claar of Union City, Joel (Donna) Claar of Union City, and Bob Claar of Florida, 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, a brother, Virgil Claar of Florida. Vilas was preceded in death by 3 sisters, Elsie, Norma, and Gracie, and one brother, Veldon.

Memorial donations may be directed to Davita of Battle Creek 220 E. Goodale Battle Creek, MI 49037.

Visitation will be Monday, January 23 6-8 p.m. at Spencer Family Funeral Home in Athens. A military service will be held Tuesday, January 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Spencer’s with Pastor David Mackaluso officiating and the Athens VFW Post 5319. Internment with full military honors at 1:00 p.m. Fort Custer National Cemetery. Arrangements by Spencer Family Funeral Home, Athens. www.spencerfamilyfuneralhome.com