Claude's life journey began on 30th January, 1968. He lived and went to school in Aitkenvale, experiencing the trials of early childhood and developed the qualities which endeared him to many people, empathy for others and generosity of spirit.

In sport he was always a team player, playing junior rugby league and soccer. He held the junior javelin record at Town High for a number of years. As an adult he played touch football, and loved canoeing and bushwalking on Hinchinbrook Island.

'I had a great adrenalin rush today' was his comment when he landed with only his auxiliary parachute. The family moved to Oak Valley where Claude learned to appreciate the simple meaningful things in life: family, the land and the bush.

From 1988 he worked at C.B. Marine and Patrick Stevedoring. He was an active unionist, job delegate and crane driver.

When diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour, his working career came to an end. With former partner Judy, a son Harlee was born. After their separation, Harlee became the main focus of his life. He adored doing things for and with his son; Tai Kwon Do, music, drama, sports and became a Scout leader. He loved watching Harlee grow and was a proud, loving and caring father. His partner Frances described him as kind and empathetic and showed nothing but respect for her and her children, the centre of her life, as Harlee was the centre of his.

Claude's ultimate gift was to donate his organs, giving hope, happiness and better health to the recipients. He was a happy person who didn't have the best of everything but made the best of everything he had. Claude was always a deep thinker, a compassionate person, a loving father, son, brother, partner and friend. Our lives are richer for having shared his short life. Rest in Peace.