Clarence Meral Gilliam

Meral was born in Ajo, AZ. To parents C.A. "Pat" Gilliam and Pauline V. Percell. At age 15, he moved to Kiowa, OK. to be with his father and step-mother, Gladys Loeda Casey. He graduated from Kiowa High School in June 1957 and enlisted in the United States Air Force. He married the love of his life, Vivian Lorine Self, on Sep 29, 1957. Meral and Lorine welcomed their son, Howard Leon, on March 15, 1967, who made their family complete.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lorine "Shorty", Tucson, AZ. Sisters: Priscilla Downey, Warwick, Md; Patsy (Pete) Moore, Graham, TX; brothers: C.A." Bear" (Cleo) Gilliam, Canadian, OK.; Paul (Sheila) Codispoti, Cedar Hills, Tx.; brother-in-law Leon Self, Tucson, Az. Numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, especially Anthony S. Penfield, Tucson, AZ.

Preceded in death by his parents, son Howard Leon Gilliam, and brother Ross Codispoti.

He served 8 years in the Air Force as a fireman and then as a Special Vehicle Repairman. While stationed in Bermuda, he was a member of the Rifle and Pistol Club (1963) and his team earned numerous individual and team honors and first place in tournaments. He enjoyed competing, and the team members stayed in contact for years.

He was honorably discharged on July 15, 1965. Moved from California to Tucson, AZ, in 1966, where he worked for Bogard's Auto Repair Shop, Duval Mine as Body and Fender specialist, Operating Engineers Union, where he was a heavy equipment mechanic and operator until he retired.

After retirement he built his son's house as well as keeping busy with helping family and friends with various projects.

He was also a good cook and made the best spaghetti sauce, which was requested by family members for birthdays, special occasions, and "just because".

Meral enjoyed playing cards, fishing, hunting, bowling, his horses, and getting together with family and friends.

He will be remembered for his smile, sense of humor, and great stories. He was supportive, protective, reliable, loyal, and loved dearly by his wife, family, and friends.

We will all miss the lovable rascal