Obituary
Claude Jerome Vaters (March 10, 1941 to December 9, 2022) passed away at the age of 81, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind his wife of 59 years Eileen; daughters Beverly (Cristiano Cartolano) and Cathryn (Robert Hawes); grandchildren Jamie, Zayden, and Kelly; brother Glen (Rose); sisters Gail (Ches Hamlyn), Karen (Cyril Squires), Gloria, and Debbie (Fred Crummey); as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbours. Predeceased by his loving parents, Gerald and Lorraine Vaters; daughter Kelly; brother Keith; and sister Judith.
Claude was born in Victoria, Newfoundland and grew up in nearby St. John’s. He followed in his father’s footsteps and worked with the CN Rail-traveling the rail across Canada from the east to the west. Claude met the love of his life, Eileen, on the train and they moved to Ontario shortly after their marriage in 1963. They lived in Toronto before settling in Georgetown to start a family and then spent the last 27 years in Brampton.
Claude worked for Goodyear Tire for 20 years. After the Toronto plant closed, he worked for Canada Post as a Letter Carrier for 15 years until his retirement.
Claude was forever a handyman-always building or fixing something in his workshop; renovating his house or everyone else’s; and helping those around him. He had a massive heart and was very generous with his time. He was there for everyone whenever they needed him-nothing was too much trouble.
Claude was a big and boisterous man who always made friends wherever he went. Whether he was on a mail run or out on the town, he would talk to everyone about anything. With his cheeky sense of humour, he had a magical way of making everyone laugh and have a good time.
Claude was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He was the first-born child and big brother to his wonderful brothers and sisters. He went everywhere with his life partner and wife Eileen. He was very proud of his daughters, Beverly and Cathryn. His grandchildren Jamie, Zayden, and Kelly were his pride and joy-and he enjoyed his ‘Poppy time’ with each of them.
Claude has left an enormous hole in our hearts and will be missed dearly. We will remember him fondly and enjoy his favourite chocolate ice cream to commemorate him. May he rest in peace knowing he was loved by so many.
Friends will be received at the Jones Funeral Home, 11582 Trafalgar Road, Georgetown on Friday, December 16th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held in the chapel on Saturday December 17th, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Trafalgar Room. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated. To send messages of condolence or to view Claude’s Memorial Service please visit www.jonesfuneralhome.co.
December 9 2022
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Claude Vaters December 9 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Georgetown, Province: Ontario
Our thoughts are with you Eileen and your family at this difficult time. Claude was the love of your life and we will remember him fondly.
Cliff and Jacqui Strickland