Claude E. DeBoard

With grateful hearts and profound sadness, we honor the life of Claude E. DeBoard, who passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, in Indianapolis, just shy of his 100th birthday. Born on September 25, 1925, Claude lived a remarkable life defined by kindness, resilience, faith, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.

Claude married Ardith Emshwiller on July 11, 1959, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. Their blended family of three boys and one daughter brought joy to his life, and he delighted in every moment spent with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He listened to their stories, celebrated their successes, and cherished their time together. His devotion as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was evident in every gentle gesture and word of encouragement.

For 27 years, Claude worked as a skilled machinist at Naval Avionics in Indianapolis, retiring in 1987. His life, however, was measured not only in years of service at work but in the countless acts of generosity and compassion he extended to others. He touched a community too large to number, offering kindness, friendship, and faith to anyone in need.

Faith guided every part of Claude’s life. Beginning in 1963, he and Ardith became deeply involved at First Church of the Nazarene in Indianapolis, where they made many lifelong friends. Together, they dedicated themselves to visiting those in hospitals, nursing homes, and other who needed comfort. At every Christmas, Claude faithfully read the story from the Bible, and at every family gathering, he led his family in prayer. His steady spiritual guidance remains a lasting testimony to the man he was.

Those who knew Claude will remember not only his faith and compassion, but also his humor and style. He always had a joke ready to share, often pulling one from the index cards he kept tucked in his pocket. He carried himself with dignity, dressed to the nines, and left smiles wherever he went.

Claude’s life will be celebrated at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46229. Family and friends are invited to visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m. In place of flowers, please make a contribution to Shepherd Community Church.

Claude is survived by his loving wife, Ardith DeBoard, daughter Terri (Jim) Russell, and son Steve (Sharon) DeBoard, along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a community of friends and loved ones beyond measure. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, cherished traditions, and inspiration for all who knew him. His faith, his prayers, and even his pocketful of jokes will live on in the hearts of those he touched.