Devoted father, grandfather, artist, athlete, avid sports fan, baseball coach

Gary Clobes, a Claremont resident for the past 40 years, died February 6 at Inter-Community Hospital in Covina. He was 73. Friends and family gathered for a celebration of his life on Saturday, February 20.

Gary graduated from La Habra High School and immediately joined the U.S. Air Force, where he was stationed in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Upon discharge from the service, he studied art at Cal State Fullerton.

After he married Karen, he was anxious to start a family, and made a decision not to pursue a career in art. He never looked back. Their daughter Heather was born first, followed shortly thereafter by a son, Robert.

Mr. Clobes loved coaching, and could not wait until he was able to pilot his son’s and daughter’s baseball and soccer teams. He coached baseball in Claremont beginning with Little League and continuing through high school.

“Gary not only taught his son and daughter the complexities of team sports, he taught many other kids the value of teamwork along the way as well,” his family shared. “To the day he passed, Gary told stories about the kids he coached. He never forgot those days. Of all the jobs Gary had in his life, coaching was his favorite. 

“Gary will be deeply missed by friends, family, and all who knew him.”

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert Greenaugh. 

He is survived by his wife Karen Clobes; children Heather Avila and Robert Clobes; and  grandchildren Jovan and Juliette Avila.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at Brethren Hillcrest Homes at https://livingathillcrest.org/giving, or by check to 2705 Mountain View Dr., La Verne, CA 91750.