Clarence Ampey

Mr. Clarence John Ampey, age 83, passed away on Saturday, April 23, 2011 at his home in Clovis, New Mexico, after a long illness. He was born on January 17, 1928, to Mamie Lawson and Carl Clarence Ampey in Cassopolis, Michigan.

Clarence spent his early life in Cassopolis on the family farm. After graduating from Michigan State University, he enlisted in the Air Force. Clarence then married the love of his life, Ruth Sayers, on December 17, 1957. They enjoyed 54 eventful years together. Once he retired from the USAF, he spent many more years working as a mechanic for Case International Harvester. Clarence first came to New Mexico in 1973, and later made it his home for retirement where he became very involved in the community and his church.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, Mamie Lawson Ampey and Carl Ampey one brother, Oren Chavous and two sisters, Martha Emily Wright and Jessie Powell.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Marie Ampey, of Clovis, NM five children, Ronald Ampey Rosealie of Cassopolis, MI, Karen Van Kuren Gary of Clovis, NM, Martha Kemp Roger of Decatur, MI, Dolores Dee Hammons Jon of Clovis, NM, and Sharon Phillips Michael of Goldsboro, NC two stepdaughters, Diana Rettig of Clovis, NM, and Bonnie Reed John of Jacksonville, FL 14 grandchildren 10 greatgrandchildren and one brother, William Ampey, of Cassopolis, MI.

Funeral and burial services will be held at the Calvin Community Chapel, 18770 Mt. Zion Street, Cassopolis, Michigan, and a memorial service will follow at a later date in Clovis, NM.

If desired, the family would suggest any memorial contributions be made to Vista Care Hospice, 2708 N. Prince St., Clovis, NM 88101. Local arrangements are by SteedTodd Funeral Home, 800 E. Manana Blvd., Clovis NM 88101, 5757635541, www.steedtodd.com. Arrangements in Michigan are by Connelly Funeral Home, 202 N. Broadway St., Cassopolis, MI 49031 2694452435.

Memorial Contributions