Claude Lavern Elrod

Claude Lavern Elrod, 80, of Rolla, MO passed away on Thursday April 27, 2023. 

Claude was born in Lanes Prairie, MO to the late Blake and Florence (Wilson) Elrod on June 26, 1942. 

He graduated from Belle High School in 1959.  Claude proudly served in the United States Army from 1964-1966 and was a member of the US Army Marksmanship Unit.  He attended basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO and was stationed at Fort Bliss, TX serving as a Military Policeman. 

After returning from his military duty, Claude ran his family’s store for many years in Lanes Prairie and actively helped his friends and neighbors in need.

 Claude was also an avid fisherman and enjoyed archery, reloading and all types of hunting.

 On July 7, 1979, Claude married Colleen Pearl Strider and they welcomed their son, Jason Charles Elrod on July 6, 1980. 

Claude spent the majority of his professional career working as a carpenter.  He was always finishing an odd job or project, oftentimes for his beautiful wife.  He was an active member of Gospel Mission Church in Vienna, MO, where his cousin, Rainey Warden Fann, Jr. leads the congregation. Claude was also a proud member of the Lanes Prairie Masonic Lodge #531.

Claude is survived by his son, Jason Elrod and his wife, Cassie, of Rolla; bonus children, Ronnie Meyer and his wife, Kris, of St. Louis, MO, and Cheri Rugraff and her husband, Don, of Tampa, Florida; his nephew, Tony Elrod of Fulton, MO; eight grandchildren, Gabriel Elrod, Amanda Bergeron, Shane Katzler, Luke Meyer, Cameron Meyer, Ean Meyer, Hugh Meyer, Austin Rugraff, Olivia Rugraff, and Blake Rugraff; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and family.  In addition to his parents, Claude was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Elrod, sister, Helen Patterson, and his wife, Colleen Elrod.  

Private family services will be held at a later date.