Claude E. Rochon Jr.

Claude E. Rochon Jr., 84, of Bella Vista, Ark., was welcomed into his Savior's arms while surrounded by family on April 12, 2014. Born on Jan. 7, 1930, to Katherine (Schmid) and Claude E. Rochon Sr. in Alpha, Mich. Claude graduated from Florence, Wis., High School, and served in the U.S. Navy for five years. Claude married June C. Waite on June 28, 1952. Claude was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and Claude Rochon; and siblings, Mercedes Zaupa, Lawrence Rochon, Robert Rochon and John Rochon. Claude is survived by his wife of 62 years, June C. Rochon; daughters, Mary Kay (Alan) Schultz, Julie (Bob) VanVoorhees; and son, David (Darcie) Rochon. He has five grandchildren, Keith R. Jewert, Candyl R. Jewert, Zachary VanVoorhees, David A. Rochon and Andrea C. Rochon; and one great-grandchild, Mikade Smith. Claude's brother, James (Marlene) Rochon; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends also survive him. Claude worked for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad for 38 years. After retirement, he and June moved to a warmer climate in Bella Vista, Ark., where he enjoyed golf practically year round, even achieving a prized hole in one! Claude was active in the men's group of St. Bernard Church, scheduling the men's golf league, managed the men's club breakfast, washed dishes for countless funeral dinners and chaired October Fest. Claude also made friends he saw daily at Branchwood Health Club to work out, enjoy coffee and conversation with afterwards. He also worked to check off items on "Honey Do" lists over his lifetime for June and their widowed friends. As Claude's health deteriorated, he was blessed with many visits from family and friends, as well as prayers, cards and phone calls. To the end, he was served well by members of St. Bernard Church, Dr. Marjorie Renfrow and the staff of Circle of Life. A rosary will be said at 9:30 a.m., with mass following at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2014, at St. Bernard Church, 1 St. Bernard Lane, Bella Vista, Ark., with a luncheon to follow. Burial will be held in the future at Rest Havens Cemetery, Iron River, Mich. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bella Vista Animal Shelter, 32 Bella Vista Way, Bella Vista, AR 72715; or St. Bernard Church. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.