William “Bill” Martin Claussen

William “Bill” Martin Claussen, 83, of Clinton, Iowa, passed away at home on Friday, January 23, 2026. Honoring his wishes cremation rites have been accorded with a celebration of his life taking place from 11 am to 1 pm on Saturday, January 31 at Lemke Funeral Homes – South Chapel. Burial takes place at a later date. Lemke Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Bill Claussen during this difficult time.

Bill was born July 12, 1942 in Clinton, Iowa. He was the son of Elmer and Betty (Herrity) Claussen. He was united in marriage to Cindy Flack in April, 1974.

Bill worked as a Machinist for Caterpillar Inc., retiring after 25 years. He was a card-carrying member of the United Auto Workers Union.

Bill loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing or just spending time on the river. He loved spending time with his sisters on their river cruise adventures. If there was a reason to be outside, he was there. Bill came from a generation of “you can count on me” – in an almost 24-hour capacity – he was there to help anyone in need. He also loved his pets, his fur-baby’s – Gizz and Cara Kitty. Above all, he loved his family very much, especially his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and recent great-great-granddaughter. He will be incredibly missed by all those that knew him.

Bill is survived by his children – Peggy Van Horn of Miles, IA, Bob (Michelle) Hass of Oxford Junction, IA, Renee Streat, of Clinton and Dawn (Mark) Howe of Maroa, IL; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and recent great-great-granddaughter; his siblings – Leita Schultz, Janet (Bruce) Johnson and Barb Manikowski all of Clinton; with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Cindy, son Bil Hass, brothers Gary and Tom Claussen, granddaughter – Megan Howe and son-in-law Dave Van Horn, Sr, brother-in-law’s – Mike Schultz and Tim Manikowski.