Claude West

Obituary: Claude Arch West III
February 8, 1932 – March 5, 2026

Claude Arch West III, a man of profound faith, boundless intellect, and an even bigger
heart, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, in Dammeron Valley, Utah
surrounded by his loving daughters and grandson.
Born in Los Angeles to Claude Arch West Jr. and Ruth Margaret Lefler Chamberlain,
Claude’s life was a grand journey that saw him reside in many different homes across
the country, yet his true "roots" were always found in his devotion to God and his family.
Claude’s spiritual journey was the compass of his life. Since his baptism in 1951, he
remained a stalwart member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was
a gifted orator and teacher, dedicating years to the youth as a Seminary and Institute
instructor. His service extended through various callings, including the Elders and High
Priest Quorums, and reached a beautiful pinnacle when he served a full-time mission in
Texas alongside his wife, Janine. For Claude, the gospel was not just a belief but a
lifelong practice of kindness, genealogy, and temple work.
Claude’s dream of a large family was fulfilled with his first wife, LaJoy. They had 11
children, 22 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren. He
was preceded in death by his second wife, Janine; his father, Claude Jr., his mother,
Ruth, his stepfather, Don, three of his sons, Terry, Aaron, and Benjamin.
Claude was a man of many talents. A UCLA graduate (Class of 1956) and a Korean
War veteran where he served as an Artillery Sergeant and marksmanship instructor at
Fort Ord, California. His professional life was equally diverse, ranging from insurance
claims to earning a Bachelor of Science in Laws in 1992. Beyond work, he was a
farmer, a gardener, a lover of Shakespeare and poetry, a choir singer, and a master
storyteller who could captivate any audience with his theatrical flair.
Claude’s life was a testament to the idea that home is not a place, but the people you
love and the faith you carry. He will be remembered for his flirty wit, his brilliant mind,
and the spiritual light he shared with everyone he met.
In accordance with his wishes, the family will hold a private burial at a later date and
time.