Obituary for Claude Alan Stilwell

Claude Alan Stilwell, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, left this world on August 3, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on September 16, 1940, in Los Angeles, California, Claude was the beloved son of Marcus Edward Stilwell and Correne Margret Hart. He grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he graduated from Jefferson High School in 1958. 

Claude’s life was marked by service and dedication. He proudly served in the United States Navy with honor and integrity. After his military service, Claude started his career path at Wilson Foods. He later worked for Savon Drug, Farmstead Foods and Duane Arnold Energy Center where he retired from in 2004. During his retirement years, Claude’s favorite hobby was work. Hobby jobs he held over the years started with nuclear outages at various locations in the country. From there, he enjoyed working at his son Mark’s restaurant, The Flat Tire Cafe and was a groundskeeper at St. John’s Cemetery with his best friend Jim Petersen. Most recently, he worked as a greeter & bagger at the Wilson Ave Hy-Vee grocery store. 

On February 27, 1974, Claude married the love of his life, Valerie Jean (Spargur) Stilwell, in a ceremony in beautiful Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Their union was a testament to love and partnership, and together they raised a beautiful family. Claude is survived by his devoted wife, Valerie; their children, Mark (Lisa) Stilwell; DeWayne Davis, Linda Dianna Davis, Danette Davis; their grandchildren George (Linzie) Fishwick, Blasia (Mike) Brown, Taylor (Justin) Harris, Danika (Bryton) Boucher, Devin (Elissa) Stilwell, Peyton (Nicole Ballenger) Stilwell; Allix (Samuel) Klueber and Raleigh Davis; Stephanie Davis-Ashby and Zachary Cook; Darby Burke, Braniff Burke, and Brody Burke; and 19 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Claude was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved daughter, Paula Burgess, and his cousin, Ed Aston, who was like a brother to him.

Claude was known for his friendly demeanor, loving heart, and kind soul. He had a passion for cooking and loved sharing meals with friends and family. He was an avid fan of the NFL, particularly the Raiders, whether in Oakland, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas. His enthusiasm for the game was infectious, and he enjoyed lively discussions about football and looked forward to Fantasy Football season.

Claude was a proud member of the Unity Center of Cedar Rapids church, where he found solace and fellowship. His faith was an important part of his life, and he touched many lives with his generous spirit and unwavering support.

A Celebration of Life to honor Claude will be held on August 16th from 4 PM - 8 PM at Unity Center of Cedar Rapids. We invite those who knew and loved him to gather for a BBQ dinner and celebrate the remarkable life he lived. 

In this time of mourning, let us remember Claude for the joy he brought into our lives, the love he shared with his family, and the kindness he extended to all.

Rest in peace, dear Claude. You will be missed, but your spirit will forever shine in our hearts.