Claude A. Akridge

Claude Ambrose Akridge, 93, passed away in his home February 21, 2024 surrounded by his three daughters. Claude was born in Elk City, Oklahoma in 1930 to Claude and Jennie B. Akridge. His younger brother, Larry, preceded him in death as well as his son-in-law, Curt Andersen. He was a devoted husband to Shirley Ann Schuneman for 68 years until her passing in 2019. Claude is survived by his daughters: Barbara (and her husband David) Gilmore, Susan Wonderly and Carolyn Andersen; six grandchildren: Matthew Wonderly, Alisha Gilmore, Megan Bridges, Dana Blanshan, Sarah Lohrmeyer and Travis Andersen; nine great-grandchildren: Zane Bridges, Lucy Wonderly, Abby Wonderly, Cole Bridges, Brody Wonderly, Peyton Lohrmeyer, Lux Bridges, Jack Blanshan, and Ryan Blanshan.     

Claude owned several local service stations for over 65 years and was an active member of the El Jebel Shrine (Scooter Patrol, Jesters and Sandblasters). Claude and Shirley belonged to square-dancing groups, enjoyed traveling, bowling leagues, and attended Bronco games since 1968.

Claude was an avid golfer taking up the sport after being invited to play in a Standard Oil Company tournament. Shirley bought his first set of clubs for $39. He enjoyed many good memories on golf courses with his friends and family. Claude made a hole-in-one July 28,2014 while playing with his grandson, Travis. 

Claude was born to a life of humble beginnings – a tough life during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression. He grew up on his grandparents’ farm and worked at the local pool hall as a shoe-shine boy at age 7, where he later became proficient enough to be regarded as the local pool shark. Claude was a member of Future Farmers of America raising and showing prized bulls. After graduating in 1947, he moved to the Denver area, where he began as a roofer, tile installer, and later became a service station owner, and real estate investor. During the Korean War, he served in the United States Army as a drill sergeant and was stationed in Austria.

Claude was a kind, principled and generous man; he loved life and people. He was a self-made gentleman who loved and provided for his family. Claude will be remembered and missed by his family, friends, customers, and employees.

Funeral service and reception will be held May 18, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Horan & McConaty: 11150 E. Dartmouth Ave., Aurora, CO 80014.  

Donations in his memory may be made to:

Shriners Children’s Hospitals  

www.donate.lovetotherescue.org