Hyle K. Claflin's Obituary
Mr. Hyle K. Claflin, age 96, died Wednesday, July 20, 2011, peacefully at his home in North Muskegon. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on May 31, 1915 to Wilber and Zola Claflin. Hyle was a graduate of Kansas State University receiving his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1938. He was president of the KSU student council and a member of ROTC. Hyle married the former Virginia Maude Sharp on August 17, 1940, in La Porte, Indiana, and she preceded him in death on December 18, 1994. He served in the US Army as a Captain during World War II, receiving the Bronze Medal. Hyle moved with his family to North Muskegon in 1953, joining West Michigan Steel Foundry (Westran Corporation) where he advanced to President of the division and served as a director of Westran, a position he held until he retired in 1981. He was a member of Pointe Marine Marina since 1962 and enjoyed boating on Hy C’s. Hyle was an active tennis player but mostly enjoyed time with his family. He was a long-time member of Central United Methodist Church, where he met the former Virginia Ann Szymczyk and married May 30, 1998. Survivors include four children: David Claflin of Slidell, LA, Jean (Jerry) Lietzke of Grand Haven, MI, James Claflin of Hinsdale, IL, and Joyce (Joe) Harrell of Bloomington, IN; three step son’s: Wayne (Pam) Szymczyk, Blair (Debra) Szymczyk, Rand (Denise) Szymczyk; three grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; very special step niece niece Lisa Harman; very dear friends: Linda Stone and Connie Johnson. He was also preceded in death by his parents and brother, Clan Claflin. A GRAVESIDE SERVICE will take place at 2:00 PM, August 20, 2011 at the Laketon Township Cemetery with military honors under the auspices of the Muskegon County Council. There will be VISITATION and a time to celebrate Hyle’s life at the Family home following the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Harbor Hospice or Central United Methodist Church. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel, Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 6291 Harvey St. (231) 798-1100.
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