Obituary of Claude Eugene Bryant
Claude Eugene “Sonny” Bryant was born on January 31, 1928 in Toledo, Ohio. He was one of four children born from the union of Claude and Dorothy Belle (Downs) Bryant. Sonny spent his early adult years proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. He served aboard the U.S.S. Graffias obtaining the rank of Seaman Second Class and was awarded the Victory Medal WWII.
Claude married, the former, Patsy Ann Shea, and the couple would welcome the birth of three sons. He was an excellent provider always working a second job to care for the needs of his family. He would spend thirty years employed for Doehler-Jarvis as a diesel mechanic and truck driver.
Sonny loved working on cars. He shared this passion with his boys. He cherished the time they were together whether fishing in Lake Erie or gathering at the family cottage at Marblehead.
Claude met Margaret (Naus) Schwartz while employed at Doehler-Jarvis Credit Union. They soon developed a special bond and would marry in September of 1980. They enjoyed spending time together and travel. Following retirement, they would move to Texas, but enjoyed coming back home to see family.
In 2007, the couple would move back to Monroe County and make their home in Erie. They enjoyed being outside, tending to their garden, and caring for their horses.
Claude Eugene “Sonny” Bryant, age 93, of Erie passed away under the care of Elara Caring Hospice on Thursday; May 20, 2021 at his home in Erie, Michigan. His passing was preceded by his parents, Claude and Dorothy, his beloved spouse, Margaret Bryant in January of 2021; two sons: Claude Bryant Jr. and Joseph Bryant; a sister: Cecile Herbster; and his former spouse: Patsy.
To cherish his memory, Sonny, leaves one son: Terry (Lorrie) Bryant of Toledo; daughter-in-laws: Jacqueline Bryant and Pamela Bryant; step-daughter: Lisa Schwartz of Erie; step-son: James Schwartz of Toledo; a brother: Roy (Marie) Bryant of Toledo; a sister: Daisy Miller of Temperance; nine grandchildren: Jacqueline Bryant (John Everhardt), Laurie Ann (Clinton) Nichols, Claude Bryant, Joseph Bryant Jr., Stacia Smith, Heather (Aaron) Christopherson, Destiny Bryant, Joey Bryant, and Cody Schwartz; and nine great grandchildren: Stephen, Kristina, Jessica, Taylor, Amelia, Keegan, Conner, Carter, and Celina.
No public services have been planned. Merkle Funeral Service, Erie; 9156 Summit Street, Erie, Michigan 48133 has been entrusted with his care.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.
