George Clinton Jeffery Claassen

George Clinton Jeffery Claassen, of Covington, passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at the age of 95, with his daughter Jenise by his side. Mr. Claassen honorably served his country in the United States Navy during WWII and the Korean War. Mr. Claassen was a true American and felt it was his duty to serve. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he carved out a career with the New York Troopers for 24 plus years, where he retired as Sergeant. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of the American Legion for 50 years in Ithaca, New York. After retirement, Mr. Claassen moved to Stone Mountain, Georgia from Smithtown, New York in 1984, and later in 2008, to Covington, where he resided. He was a phenomenal storyteller and captured his listeners, especially when telling stories about his life and time in the military. In addition, Mr. Claassen held a special place in his heart for saving animals and was involved in New York State Conservation and The Nature Conservancy. He was influential to those around him and touched many lives. He was a great dad and loved his children. Mr. Claassen was preceded in death by his loving wife, Doris Elizabeth Claassen; parents, George Clinton Jeffery and Alice Claassen; mother, Mildred Claassen; daughter, Janet E. Claassen; and son, Jeffery J. Claassen.

Survivors include his daughter, Jenise A. Claassen; grandchildren, Jae J. Claassen, Ariel E. Claassen; great-granddaughter, Melody E. Claassen; sister, Lynn Bowinkel; and cousin, Margerie “Peggy” Craven.

A Memorial Service for Mr. Claassen will be held at a later date.