Claude M. Payton, 83, died Wednesday at Bethlehem Woods Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Ft. Wayne, IN. He was born in Tunnelton, Indiana to the late William Claude & Florence (Terry) Payton.

He married Phyllis (Hissong) Payton in February 1953 and she preceded him in death on October 28, 2007.

Surviving are sons, Keith Payton of Ft. Wayne, IN, Bill (Kelly) Payton of Utah, Paul (Karla) Payton of Missouri and Patrick (JoDe) Payton of Garrett, IN; 4 grandchildren & 1 great grandchild and a brother, Delbert (Mary Lou) Payton of Waterloo, IN. He was preceded in death by 6 brothers & 2 sisters.

Claude worked as an Engineer with Dana Corporation in Auburn, IN and was a Korean War Army Veteran. He was a member of the Kendallville VFW and the American Legion Post 97 in Auburn, IN.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given in Claude's memory to the American Legion Post 97 - PO Box 650 Auburn, IN 46706.