Clair R. Keyser

Clair R. Keyser        â€œbeloved husband and father”

SMETHPORT, PA---Clair R. Keyser, 78, of Smethport, formerly of Port Allegany and Shinglehouse, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 8, 2016, after a long illness.
      Born April 10, 1937 in Crystal, he was a son of Raymond W. and Hilda M. Prochnow Keyser.  On July 5, 2002 in Las Vegas, Nevada, he married Francisca “Fran” Martinez, who survives.
     Clair was a graduate of Shinglehouse High School, Class of 1955.  After graduating from high school, Clair enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving his country for four years before being injured and disabled.  He worked for the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association in Manhattan, N.Y. as an advocate for fellow disabled veterans. After becoming disabled, Clair attended and graduated from the Colorado School of Trades in Denver with a degree in gunsmithing.  
     Clair was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Olean, NY.  He was a life member of the NRA and the PVA (Paralyzed Veterans Association). He was an avid hunter, especially deer and turkey hunting.  He enjoyed every type of fishing, loved to tinker with his guns, and was always willing to help anyone with their guns.  He was a great cook and was known for his adventurous driving.
     Surviving besides his wife are twelve children: Donald, Larry Keyser Conkey, John (Lisa) Keyser, Clair O. (Robie) Keyser, Gina (John) Thompson, Rebecca (Steve) Teeples, Jeannette (Paul) Kerswill, Michelle (Aric) Rees, Michelle (Edward) Himes, Karen (Brian) Spencer, Laura Hall, and Imagin Brown Keyser; many grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
     In addition to his parents, Clair was predeceased by three brothers, Francis Keyser, Fred Keyser and Leonard Keyser; and a sister, Wanda Wood.
     Family and friends are invited to call from 3 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, January 10, 2016 at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, Pa, where a celebration of life for Clair will begin at 4 p.m. with Bishop Cameron Markert of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, officiating.  Burial will be in the Crystal Cemetery.
     Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord military honors on Sunday.
     Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.