Obituary

Loden, Cleo V.

Cleo Loden passed away on February 2, 2014 at "The Terrace," one of Redbud Care Home, Inc.'s exceptional licensed residences. His daughter was with him at the time of his death, and many other family members and friends stopped by during his final hours. He was very loved.

Cleo was born September 29, 1921, in Athens, Texas to Charles V. Loden and Pearl Guernsey Loden. He had five brothers and one sister, who have all preceded him in death.

He graduated from Athens High School and almost immediately entered the military. He served in the U.S Army for a total of six years. His last two years of service were spent in Helena, MT. with the First Special Forces, which eventually became commonly known as the "Devil's Brigade." He had many fond memories from that time in his life, and was fortunate to have attended two of the reunions with the remaining "Devil's Brigade" in 2005 and, again, in 2007.

After being honorably discharged from the military, this Texas boy found his way to southern California. Shortly after arriving, he met Dorothy Tanner and her family. Within three months of meeting they married on July 17, 1948. That marriage was to last almost 57 years before Dorothy passed away in May of 2005. They had two daughters, Becky and Liz.Cleo was a multi-talented man. He spent the majority of his career working in the grocery industry. His final working years were spent at Stop N Save Market, a family owned and run business. He also loved working outdoors, whether it was maintaining his homes or caring for his yard. He could fix anything. He was an outgoing, engaging man who never knew a stranger. He had a great sense of humor and those who spent time with him always loved his company. He eventually became legally blind and his ability to cope with life's challenges never ceased to amaze his friends and family. He was gifted socially, but he was also well read and interested in many social/political issues. He could do anything he put his mind to. His talents were unlimited. Cleo loved people most of all though. He thoroughly enjoyed his neighbors, the many wonderful companions who have cared for him in his home for the last 5-6 years, the incredible staff at The Terrace, and his family who adored him.

Those who knew him will truly miss this special man.Cleo is preceded in death by his parents, all of his siblings and his wife, Dorothy. Cleo is survived by his daughters Becky (David) and Liz (Terry), as well as six grandchildren, Jolie (Tom), Danielle (Allan), Troy (Marje), Tristan (Mallory), Collin and Sarah. He also has seven great grandchildren, Heather, Shelby, Zack, Max, Riley, Noah and Elijah. A private graveside service will be held in Plainview, Texas, February 15, 2014. He will be buried next to his wife and other family members. As well, there will be a private Celebration of Life for Cleo at his home here in Redding at a future date.