Bert W. Claster – Obituary

Bert W. Claster
Bert W. Claster

Bert W. Claster, 79, passed away on Monday April 14, 2014 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 18th, 1934 to Samuel and Clara (Goldberg) Claster. He graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1952, attended Penn State University from 1952 to 1954 and then transferred to Lock Haven State College where he graduated in 1957 with a degree in History/Secondary Education. Mr. Claster served in the U.S. Army from 1957 until 1959 when he was discharged at the rank of Specialist 4th class.

Bert worked for ML Claster and Sons Lumber Company from 1959 until 1971 and then again from 1984 until his retirement in 1994. He served as the manager of the original Lock Haven branch and was the first Claster to manage the store since its founding, by his grandfather, in 1901. He also served as the Executive Vice President of Claster Lumber and was one of the third generation family members that ran the company for many years. He had an incredible passion for the building material industry and a great pride in his contribution to the family business. Mr. Claster also owned and operated other businesses in the Lock Haven area including Claster Beverage and Adams Oil Company.

Bert’s hobbies included woodworking, the American Circus and travelling. He was well known for being a “Mr. fix it” and for aiding his friends in various home improvement projects. His absolute favorite pastimes were tinkering in his workshop or backyard and spending time with his family whether at their home, on the river or out on the mountain at their family’s lodge.

Mr. Claster is survived by his wife Fredericka of 43 years, his two daughters Elizabeth (John) Rice of Dedham, MA and Carolyn (Sean) Evans of South Bend, IN, as well as a son Samuel (Patricia) Claster of Edinboro, PA and his four grandsons John Rice, Patrick Rice, Nicholas Rice and Samuel Evans. Bert is preceded in death by his brother Jerome Claster and his son Patrick Claster.

The family will be receiving those who wish to pay tribute to Bert at the Beth Yehuda Synagogue (side entrance) at 320 W Church St. in Lock Haven on Saturday April 19, 2014. There will be a short remembrance beginning at 2pm with a reception to follow. Burial will be at the discretion of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Highland Cemetery Association at P.O. Box 93 Lock Haven or the Ross Library at 232 West Main St in Lock Haven.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Donald G. Walker Funeral Home, Inc., 231 High Street, Flemington.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.donaldwalkerfunearlhome.com

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