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Claude C. Deegan

Claude C. Deegan 87, of Belpre, Ohio, and formerly of Pottstown, Pa., passed away peacefully at his home on Jan. 9, 2013, surrounded by family.

Claude was the widower of Gloria “Becky” (Endy) Deegan, also from Pottstown, Pa., with whom he shared 63 years of marriage.

He attended Pottstown High School and joined the Marine Corps during World War II. While serving from 1943 to 1945 in the South Pacific he earned a Purple Heart. Claude later attended and graduated from Albright College, Reading, Pa., where he earned a B.S. in chemistry. His degree led him to a career in plastics which included employment with Firestone, Stauffer Hoechst and Borg Warner/GE Plastics.

Claude’s passions were sculpting, painting, ceramics and music. His endeavors led him into the community where he was frequently known in art circles along with his wife who was a ceramicist. As an avid drummer Claude played at Sunnybrook Ballroom in Pottstown, Pa., during the Big Band era, where he met many famous jazz musicians; among them Frank Sinatra, a story he loved to tell. His musical passion kept him playing as a drummer up until his passing with a group of local musicians.

Claude is survived by his children, Claude C. Jr., husband of Colleen M. Deegan, of Anderson S.C., Thomas L. Deegan of Belpre, Ohio James D. Deegan of Belpre, Ohio, and Claudia L. Deegan-D’Amelio, wife of Thomas D’Amelio, of Wilmington, Del.; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Dolores and Peg Deegan; and many nieces and nephews in Pottstown.

He was preceded by siblings, John L., Wayne A. and William R Deegan Sr, and Frances D. Wells.

Claude donated his body to Ohio University for medical research. Internment of his ashes will be at a later date convenient for the family.