Claude Napier, 73, of Rensselaer, Indiana passed away Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at Franciscan Health Crown Point. He was born in Kentucky on December 18, 1943, the son of Henderson Napier and Mable (Ritchie) Napier. He had been a resident of Jasper County for over 60 years.

On June 17, 1961, in Gifford, Indiana he married the love of his life, Geri Bailey. He worked as a mechanic for Sealy Springs in Rensselaer for many years. He enjoyed woodworking and built many beautiful cabinets. Claude was an avid fisherman who loved animals. He enjoyed listening to Gospel music, especially the New Vision Band of which his son was a member. He was a good-natured man who loved to joke and tease his friends and family. He will be greatly missed.

Claude is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Geri Napier of Rensselaer; one son, Calvin (Cella “Peach”) Napier of North Judson; one brother, Clifford Napier of Alaska; one sister, Clara (Carl) Myer of DeMotte, Indiana; three grandchildren: Cella “Punkin” Brown of South Haven, Indiana, Marenia Branch of Reynolds, Indiana, and Jared Vanhoose of Kentucky; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, Henderson and Mable Napier; and two brothers, Tivis Napier and Denzel Napier.

Visitation will be Friday, June 2, 2017 from 4-8 p.m. (CDT) at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer with Pastor Rick Helton officiating. Interment will follow at Independence Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Jasper County Animal Shelter. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.