SMYRNA - Ronald H. "Monk" Clausen, also called Ron by many of his friends, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011 at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, after a brave, 11 month long battle with lung cancer. He was 65. Born in Wilmington, on March 11, 1946, he grew up in Dagsboro. He attended John M. Clayton from first grade through graduation in 1965. He loved the beach, and all water sports - and was a certified Scuba Diver and was a Lifeguard with the Bethany Beach Patrol. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the US Air Force and served most of his career at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippine Islands. He received an honorable discharge in 1969. After his service, he moved to Millsboro and worked for several years on various construction jobs. He was hired by General Foods and moved to Marydel to be near his work. In 1988 he was hired by Johnson Controls at Middletown, and worked there until his retirement in 2008. He purchased a home in Smyrna in 1997, and lived there with his brother, Lawrence, who preceded him in death. He was an avid golfer at Jonathan Country Club and Garrison's Lake, and was also a member of the bowling team at Middletown. In addition to his brother, Larry, he was predeceased by his father. He is survived by his mother and step-father, Ann and Bob Long, of Millsboro. Also surviving are one niece and her husband, Lori and John Ulmer, USMC, of Buffington, S.C.; and two grand-nephews; five aunts, Alberta Beyer, of Yuma, Ariz.; Ruth Kent of Hartly, Margie Tuxward of Dover, Carol Beyer, Harrington, and Elsie Ayers, Lewes. Also many cousins, and a step sister, Ruth and Pat Patterson of Millsboro. Funeral Services are 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, Del., where friends may call from 12 noon until 2 p.m. The Rev. Carol Beyer will officiate. Interment follows at Dagsboro Redmens Cemetery. Flowers are welcomed, or memorial contributions may be made to the Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriot's Lane, Milford, DE 19963 Arrangements by Watson Funeral Home. Electronic condolences may be sent to
www.watsonfh.com
