Clayton E. Ooley, 93, Pocatello, passed away, November 9, 2019.
Mr. Ooley was born at St. Francis Hospital on August 10th, 1926 in Grand Island, Nebraska. He is the oldest of two children born to his parents. He has a brother, Robert, who is 6 years younger. His mother was a school teacher until she married his father. His father was a farmer until the recession occurred and then he went to work for the Union Pacific Railroad. Mr. Ooley and his family moved to Idaho when he was about 9 years old.
Mr. Ooley graduated from Pocatello High School. He worked while attending school delivering newspapers and magazines, as a caddy for golf club, and he bartended for the Elk's Lodge during the summer. He made $3.25 a week and gave all his paychecks except 10 cents to his mother. He used this money to attend matinees every Saturday.
Mr. Ooley joined the Navy in August 1944. He served until June 1946. He was a Gunner's mate and was eventually promoted to a seaman. He served in Australia, the Philippines, New Zealand, and India.
He met the love of his life, Dorothy Arlene Mitts, upon discharge from the service in February 1946. He proposed to her 11 days later. They married on June 7, 1946. Mr. and Mrs. Ooley had four children together: Vicky, Barb, Brad and Diane; five grandchildren: Ben, Robbie, Aaron, Amanda and Andy; and six great-grandchildren: Mason, Mckenna, Maddox, Kaden, Brennan, and Eliot. Mr. and Mrs. Ooley were married 58 years before her passing due to illness. As a family they enjoyed fishing and spending time in the outdoors together.
Mr. Ooley was employed as a manager for over 32 years. Nineteen years at a grocery store, and the remaining time at Ernest hardware store.
Mr. Ooley was an active Methodist and enjoyed attending church. He also loved being outdoors, coloring, and spending time with this family. He was an active gardener and volunteered at the health department for 14 years maintaining flowerbeds on the grounds. He also maintained 22 rose bushes at his home.
He was loved by all, and will be greatly missed.