Clayton DeGroot

Clayton DeGroot, 85, of Appleton, passed away on Thursday, July 12, 2012.

Clayton was born on June 14, 1927 in Wausaukee, to James and Nellie DeGroot. He served in the Army Air corps during WWII. On February 14, 1950 he married Jeanette Pilon in Niagara. Clayton worked at Kimberly Clark for 40 years until his retirement. He was an avid camper for over 50 years and built his first two campers. Clayton and his wife Jeanette enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, spending their winters after retirement in the south. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren and he enjoyed spending time with them, that time will always be treasured. Clayton was very inventive and his mind never stopped working, even in his later years, the inventions just got smaller. His work will be remembered in all of his children and grandchildren's houses. Clayton was a charter member of St. Thomas More.

Clayton is survived by his children: Steve (Donna) DeGroot, Gillett; Jill Karras, Seattle, WA; Glen (Dana) DeGroot, Greenville; Elaine (Jeff) Zak, Appleton; Paul (Norma) DeGroot, Appleton and Patrick (Suzy) DeGroot, Shiocton; grandchildren: Jesse (Tracy) Karras; Michelle and Shawn Zak; Lindsay and Michael DeGroot; Eric DeGroot Schreiter; a great grandchild, Wilson Zak Garrity; sister: Evelyn Dolan, Kaukauna; Leone Berg, Appleton, and Helen DeGroot, Appleton and a brother-in-law: Carlton Berg, Town of Menasha. Clayton is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jeanette in 2008, and two sisters; Eunice DeGroot and Geraldine DeGroot Berg.

The memorial service for Clayton will be held on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at 10:30 AM with Fr. Jim Lucas officiating at the STAR OF HOPE CHAPEL, at Highland Memorial Park, 3131 N. Richmond St. A time of visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:00 AM until the time of the service at the cemetery chapel.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the ALS Association. The family would like to thank, Jacob Temple, the staff at Appleton Retirement Community and Dr. Steven Dernlan and Tracy for all of their wonderful care that they showed Dad. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com.