Clayton Dean Fillbach's Obituary
Clayton Fillbach
December 19, 1934 - August 1, 2018
Clayton Dean Fillbach was born December 1934 in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Dora Vivian Upward and Clyde Henry Fillbach. His friends and family call him “Clay” or “Claytie.”
After high school, Clay proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1957. After the service, Clay married his high school sweetheart, Betty Eskew, and they celebrated 60 years of marriage on June 9, 2016. They have lived in Yalaha, Florida for the past 24 years, but previously resided in Clearwater, FL, and Milwaukee, WI.
Clay started in the grocery store business while in high school and worked himself up to managing grocery stores for Krogers. He and Betty decided to leave the cold of Wisconsin and move to Florida where he subsequently joined Keebler cookies as a sales rep and was a Keebler elf, “the cookie man,” until he retired. Clay was admired for his integrity, incredible work ethic, and dependability. He is the person colleagues, friends and neighbors would call on for all kinds of help and know he would show up and give his all. He’s super handy, knowledgeable, and delights in keeping things clean, neat and organized – taking of care of his home or your home and the community! If he saw a job that needed doing, he took the initiative and did it well. And, he enjoyed teaching others and passing along helpful tips and information. And oh yes, he would also give you his opinion without asking! Clay took care of things but, more importantly, he took care of people. He was generous with his time, support, and love.
Clay continued to be of service throughout his life. He loved being a greeter on Sunday mornings at Adventure Christian and volunteering at Adventure Thrift Center. He also served as President and on various committees in the Waterwood Community.
The navy started his love for travel, and he and Betty visited many countries in Europe and Asia as well as enjoyed cruising. He also enjoyed fishing on his pontoon boat. Being on water is a second home for this sailor! While he worked hard, he enjoyed life to the fullest, especially good food (fish & grits, steak, chocolate cake), good company (he liked parties), and good cars (Lincoln Mkz & Tesla). There was always time to have fun and create mischief!
While full of playfulness, Clayton Fillbach took each of his roles seriously and was the most dedicated and exemplary husband, dad, grandpa, and friend anyone could ever hope for – our rock and security in the world. He set an example for all of us. He had a deep and abiding faith which he passed along to his children. We celebrate Clay’s heavenly birthday as we know he is with Jesus and happily united with Betty. We expect God has already assigned Clay to be a greeter at the pearly gates where he brings his warm smile, hearty handshake, and cheerful welcome. Of course, he would offer the new arrivals a cocktail too!
Clayton is survived by his daughters, Kelly Hoffman (Trinity, FL) and Kriss Hayward and son-in-law Errol Hayward (Santa Clara, CA); three granddaughters: Hope Bartlett and spouse, Wendy Bartlett (Syracuse, NY), Flynn Hayward (Los Angeles, CA), Jett Hayward (Palo Alto, CA); and two great grandsons: Lucas and Logan Allman (Dunedin, FL), brother Reo Fillbach and his wife, Barb Fillbach (Beloit, WI).
Celebration of Life Service for Clayton Fillbach
Adventure Christian Church (3701 N Eichelberger Rd, Tavares, FL 32778)
Thursday, August 9, at 11:00 a.m.
Lunch at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Adventure Christian Church, Tavares.
Online condolences can be left on the Tribute Wall.
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