Obituary: Bailey, Claude
Age 77
He was at his daughter’s home with family at his side as he took his last breath.
Claude was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 25th, 1937.
He grew up in Tacoma, WA and graduated from Stadium High School.
He received his undergraduate education from Puget Sound University and his Juris Doctorate from Gonzaga Law School.
Claude was married to Georgia Spicher Bailey for 29 years.
She preceded him in death in 1996.
They raised their two daughters Leslie and Lisa on the South Hill of Spokane.
A dedicated father who loved his girls immensely, he prided himself on never missing an important milestone in their lives.
Claude enjoyed golf with close friends at Manito Country Club, and was especially proud of two career holes-in-one.
Claude took great pleasure in maintaining his yard.
The family enjoyed summer vacations in Whitefish, Montana where Claude was known to slalom ski the length of the lake while wearing his golf pants.
In the winter months, the family skied together all over the Inland Northwest and at Big Mountain, MT.
Claude retired from law after practicing for more than 35 years in Spokane.
He was dedicated to the integrity of the law and practiced with truth and fairness.
In recent years, Claude moved to Coeur d’Alene to be closer to family.
He was fond of his new home and surroundings as well as the companionship of his neighbors and friends.
He spent many hours with his grandchildren, babysitting and teaching the “little indians” how to play gin rummy.
Claude is survived by his two daughters, Leslie Bailey and Lisa Bailey May, his son-in-law Dr. Michael May, grandchildren Georgia, Lachlan, and Olivia May; Flynn Bailey, as well as his sister-in-law Kim Spicher.
The family would like to extend much gratitude to Dr. Kevin Mulvey and Cori Sowa, RN for their outstanding and compassionate care.
Visit Claude’s memorial and sign his online guestbook at www.englishfuneralchapel.com