Clyde L. ''Boze'' Savage

Clyde L. (Boze) Savage, 72, a lifelong resident of Cottonwood died Friday, May 20 at his home. Boze was born March 14, 1933 in Moyers, Oklahoma and moved to Cottonwood as a young boy. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War and after his discharge Boze married Georgia Erna O'Donnal on January 5, 1957. He was one of the first employees hired at the new Phoenix Cement plant in Clarkdale, and spent his entire career as a heavy equipment operator and licensed explosives technician until his retirement in 1989. Boze was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a foster parent, and he regularly volunteered at several community organizations. His varied service to others permitted him to make many friends in the Verde Valley. Boze was an avid outdoorsman and loved to fish. In his boat named the Peck's Lake Special, Boze was known for his expertise in landing the biggest bass in the Valley. Boze was preceded in death by his parents and a brother. He is survived by his eternal sweetheart Erna, his sister Helen Killebrew of Cottonwood, and a brother, Charles Savage of Monticello, AR. Boze was the loving father of five children, Michael (and Georgia) of Albuquerque, NM, Debbie (and Bruce) Ray of Eagar, AZ, Danny (and Jeana) of Point Roberts, WA, Sharon (and Dave) Taylor of Parker, CO, and Lisa (and J) Patridge of Clarkdale. Boze was the foster father to a host of children, as well as being lovingly called Dad and Grandpa by many. Boze was the proud grandfather of 16 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were on Tuesday, May 24 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cottonwood. Burial will follow at the Clear Creek Cemetery in Camp Verde.