Claude Arthur McKillips Jr.

CASTALIA — Claude Arthur McKillips Jr., 68, Castalia, passed away unexpectedly late Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 23, 2021, surrounded by his four daughters, at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland. He was born July 13, 1953, in Sandusky, the son of Claude Arthur and Charlotte Ruth (Zieber) McKillips, Sr. The McKillips family originated from Kelleys Island, where they were known as commercial fishermen. Claude was a 1971 graduate of Perkins High School. He retired in 2006 from Delphi, a division of General Motors, where he had worked for over 30 years. He will be remembered by his family as a loving father and, by anyone who truly knew him, how he had a "big heart." Over the years, Claude was known as an avid golfer. He also enjoyed camping, hunting, playing dart ball, and he had a love for his motorcycles. He was also a founding member of the Bikers Memorial Fund. Claude was a member of the U.A.W. Local # 913 and a former member of the Sandusky Eagles Aerie #2869. He is survived by his four daughters, Michelle (Bill) Porter of Huron, Deb (Larry) Gulick of Howell, Michigan, Nicole (Ken) Blair of Sandusky and Brittany (Zack) Graffice of Huron; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; a sister, Nadine "Dede" Hook of Sandusky; and nieces and nephews. Claude was preceded in death by his mother, Charlotte Sharpe; his father, Claude A. McKillips, Sr.; and his brother, Kim D. McKillips. It was his wish to be cremated. A private family memorial service will occur at a later date. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to the Bikers Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1081, Sandusky, OH 44870. Arrangements are entrusted to the David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. Your memories and words of comfort may be shared with Claude's family at davidfkoch.com.