Clayton Hjalmer "Clay" Pederson, Sr.

Clayton “Clay” Pederson Sr. passed away on Saturday Sept 16th just 3 weeks shy of his 80^th birthday.

Clay grew up in Colorado splitting time in North Dakota as well as Mississippi. He attended the University of Colorado where he played football and Ole Miss.

Clay Sr. was an Army Captain, Green Beret and a highly decorated Vietnam veteran, these accommodations included the Bronze Star(V) and a Purple Heart. He was fiercely proud of his service and was passionate about giving back to the military community any way he could.

After his time in the military, Clay returned to the family business and became a successful real estate broker, specializing in coin operated laundries. 

A passionate amateur archeologist, Clay Sr. traveled as often as he could, visiting Guatemala, Belize and Mexico regularly. He was always seeking adventure and new experiences, often spending weeks in the jungle. Clay had an easy smile and made friends wherever he went and while some people pick up trinkets and souvenirs while traveling, Clay brought home new friendships with each trip.

When stateside, Clay loved to spend time in his Bronco touring around Southern California, going to San Diego Padres games, and whenever possible, hanging out with his kids Jaden and Clay Jr.

Clay Sr. was a war hero, father and brother. His infectious laugh and kind heart will be dearly missed by many.

Cpt. Clayton H Pederson is survived by his brother Hal, his sister Laurie Jane and his children Jaden and Clayton Jr. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in his name to K9s for Warriors here  https://donate.k9sforwarriors.org/site/Donation