Claude was born in New Orleans to Irwin “Irv” Maher and Doris Devitt, the youngest of 3 sons. Living in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward until displaced by Hurricane Betsy, they relocated to St. Bernard Parish where Claude would remain a lifelong resident. As a young man, Claude found his love for bowling, founding the inaugural Chalmette High School bowling team. He married his high school sweetheart, Melody Munch of Chalmette, and together they had 3 sons. Claude's career at AT&T spanned 33 years where he worked as a lineman, manager, and safety supervisor. After retirement, he went on to be the executive director of safety nonprofit Operation Lifesaver Louisiana for over a decade. Claude spent his golden years traveling with his partner of 8 years, Bonnie Eades.His lifelong passion was always his hobby of bowling. For over 60 years, he was a fixture at nearly every bowling center in Southeast Louisiana. As a bowler of exceptional skill, he bowled his first 300 at age 14 and more than 30 perfect games in his life. Over the years, he became deeply involved with the Greater New Orleans branch of the United States Bowling Congress, serving in several leadership roles including an extended tenure as president of the organization. He leaves behind his sons, Claude Jr. (and wife, Heather), Jeffrey, and Mark, his grandson Jeffrey Jr. “Jay”, his brothers, Mike and Chuck, his ex-wife Melody, and his long-time partner, Bonnie, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and an enormous community of friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his father, Irv, and his mother, Doris. Relatives and friends were invited to attend a Celebration of Life at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA 70043, US, on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. The funeral service began at 2:00pm.