Obituary of Clair Ervin Rolfe

CLAIR ERVIN ROLFE April 6, 1930 – April 16, 2022 Born in Garfield, Washington, the middle child of nine, he and his family later moved to Mandan, North Dakota where, during his growing-up years, he contributed to the wellbeing of the household during lean times, but always felt blessed with many fond memories of his childhood. Attending Jamestown college on a football scholarship, he earned degrees in English and Physical Education, continuing to become a teacher and later principal. Joining the service, Clair then became a career Navy pilot, flying large aircraft from many bases all around the world as well as being a pilot instructor here in the States. As a young retiree in the redwoods on the Mendocino coast, he enjoyed fishing, diving for abalone, and making new friends, all the while building three different homes and keeping up numerous hobbies. Married to Joyce Albers in 1957 and having four young children, Clair sadly became widowed in 1966. Living in the same neighborhood, yet not knowing each other, he then met Carol, also recently widowed with 5 children. Merging as one large family of eleven with children ranging in age from 18 months to 14 years, they were married for 47 years. Clair was a man of many, many talents: A teacher, pilot, sportsman, artist, musician, dance instructor, draftsman, builder, gardener, comedian, and more. He loved being with his family and friends, playing games, and telling his latest anecdote with that telltale grin on his face that let you know he was likely pulling your leg. He was very active in his church on many levels and belonged to the Knights of Columbus as a proud member of the Fourth Degree. We will all miss him very much. Preceded in death by his wife, Carol, and oldest son, Jay Thompson, Clair is survived by his children: Scott Thompson of Concord, CA, Mark Thompson of Nice, CA, Lisa Sheldon of Orinda, CA, Miles (Chris) Rolfe of Loveland, CO, Lee Sidwell of Loveland, CO, Glen Rolfe of Lakeport, CA, Don Rolfe of Knoxville, TN, Susan Rolfe of Nice, CA, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday April 25th, 4-6 pm with a Rosary at 6 pm at Chapel of the Lakes, 1625 North High Street, Lakeport, CA 95453. A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 12 noon at Saint Mary Immaculate Church, 801 N. Main Street, Lakeport, CA. Internment service at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd, Dixon, CA 94620.