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In Loving Memory, Clayton Chocktoot

Clayton Melvin Chocktoot

Clayton Melvin Chocktoot was born in Klamath Falls on January 4,1940 at Lightfoot Hospital. He passed over peacefully at home to be with his Creator January 9, 2021 in Klamath Falls Oregon with family and good friends by his side.

Clayton graduated from Oregon Tech in 1960, having studied Auto and Diesel Technology. After college he spent several years as a mechanic before starting his own business in 1969, building high performance cars. He sold his business in 1972 and joined the Chrysler Corporation, working as a District Service and Parts Sales Manager in the Portland area. After taking early retirement, he then went to work for the Nissan Motor Corporation, also in Portland, as a Regional Consumer Relations Manager. He was a lifelong member of the Loyal Order of Moose

He served as the Klamath Tribal Elder Committee Chairman for many years and was a proud member of the Chiloquin Community. In addition to being active with his tribe, Clay recently became an author.  Fort Rock and Paisley Cave Descendants: The Chocktoot Bands of the Paiute Snake Tribes which is focused on the history of the Paiutes and what life was like on the reservation in the Great Basin.

Clayton served on the advisory board at Oregon Tech for the respiratory department, where he had the opportunity to engage with students. It was important to him that they truly understand how important the work they do is and how they save lives.

Clay Leaves behind his wife Theresa of 38 years, three daughters: Theresa Partridge, Sharon Blakenship, and Dee Anne Walker.  He was blessed with six grandchildren and three great grandchildren. 

His sense of humor, beautiful smile and the love he had for his family and community will be missed by all. 

No services will be held due to the COVID pandemic.  Clay will be interned as soon as weather permits at Brown Cemetery in Beatty Oregon where he will be placed at the feet of his Grandparents, David and Clara Chocktoot and his mother Rena Chocktoot.