Clayton Beisiegel

Clayton Beisiegel, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, peacefully passed away on July 3, 2024. Clayton was born on February 22, 1923 to Anton and Margarethe (Weiland) Beisiegel in Buffalo, New York. Growing up in Buffalo, Clayton attended Boy’s Vocational School where he studied basic electricity. His studies were cut short, however, so that he could help support his family. He went to work at Curtis Wright as a riveter, building P39s and P40 fighter planes for the war effort until he was drafted. Clayton served with honor in the 902nd European Aviation Engineer Command of the Army Airforce in England, France and Germany during World War II. During his time in the military he served in numerous capacities including as a rifle range instructor and as a courier between command headquarters. One of his memorable moments of those years came when he was assigned to the officer’s mess in England. It was there that he met and waited table for the renowned big band leader, Glen Miller.

After returning from the war, he met Lorraine Small and they married on August 16, 1947. The couple moved to Cheektowaga, New York where they resided most of their lives. Their marriage spanned nearly 75 years as “Rainy” passed away just a couple of weeks shy of their anniversary. Together they built a life centered around faith, family and friends. They attended Epiphany United Church of Christ, formerly known as St. Andrews United Church of Christ, where he served as the Coordinator of Ushers and acted as head usher for forty-five years. Together with Lorraine he ran an appliance repair business for many years and became known to friends and family as the fixit man. When not working, Clayton’s passions were carpentry, gardening, golf and dancing to the music of the big bands. Clayton was an avid golfer and a member of the St. Andrews Golf League, walking the course up to three times a week well into his late eighties.

In April 2021, Clayton and Lorraine relocated to Milton, Vermont to be closer to their children. Embraced by the Haydenberry Commons community, Clayton brought his outgoing nature, warmth and kindness to this new chapter of his life.

Clayton was predeceased by his devoted wife Lorraine and elder siblings Mildred (Haller), Howard, and Clara (Rasp). He is survived by his two children, Alice Beisiegel (Michael Gurdon) and Donald Beisiegel (Sheila), three grandchildren, Sarah Harter (Rob), Patrick Beisiegel and Kayla Beisiegel, and three great grandchildren, Liam, Silas, and Quinn. Clayton also leaves behind numerous beloved nieces, nephews and their families. His was a life lived to the fullest. He was loved and cherished by many and will never be forgotten.