Gerald Kenneth Clausen

Mr. Gerald Kenneth Clausen, age 67, of Sandersville, entered into rest on Monday, May 28th, 2012 at his home surrounded by his wife, Kay Tanner Clausen, son, David Edward Clausen, daughter, Susan Kathryn Clausen, and family. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 31st at 1:00pm at the Sandersville United Methodist Church with the Rev. Joe Buck IV officiating.

Mr. Clausen who was also known as “Coach” to many was born in Mobile, Alabama on November 2nd, 1944, the second son of the late George Edward Clausen, Sr. and Ethel Fredericka Allen. Gerald entered the United States Navy in 1968. He was in the One Hundred and First River Assault Division in Vietnam, and served three years in the Navy. After leaving the Navy, Gerald attended Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington where he received his Bachelors of Science degree. Gerald later attended Troy State University in Troy, Alabama where he received his Masters of Education degree. Coach Clausen ended up teaching and coaching at Coppinville Jr. High School in Enterprise, Alabama. He and wife Kay met while teaching together and were married on October 12th, 1975. On March 14th, 1978 Gerald and Kay had twins David and Susan. Gerald taught school in Alabama and Georgia for over thirty five years and was beloved by colleagues and students alike. He was well-known in the Sandersville, Georgia and Enterprise, Alabama communities for his compassion, willingness to help anyone in need, and his dog Hunter.

Gerald is survived by his wife of thirty seven years Kay Tanner Clausen of Sandersville, Daughter, Susan Clausen of Atlanta, Son David Edward (Ginger) Clausen, of Leeds, AL., grandchildren, David Thomas Clausen, and Kali Lane Clausen also of Leeds, Al., Brothers George Edward Clausen, Jr. of Spring, TX., and Charles Frederick Clausen of Irving, Tx., Father in law Dr. David Eugene Tanner of Savannah, Brother in law Dr. David C. (Laurie)Tanner, and Nephew David Andrew Tanner all of Charlotte, NC. Gerald is also survived by many other family members including several Nieces and Nephews.

Donations may be made in Gerald’s memory to Lung Cancer Research: Lung Cancer Alliance P.O. Box 418372, Boston, MA. 02241-8372. The website is www.lungcanceralliance.org. There is a “donate” and “honor loved ones” section. The bottom section of the page allows individuals to pay tribute and if you would like to notify the family that a donation has been made please check the box “Mail a letter on my behalf”. The donation amount is not disclosed just that a donation in Gerald’s name was made.
Address for Mail a letter on my behalf 1207 Plantation Drive Sandersville, GA. 31082.

The family will be at the Clausen residence on Plantation Drive and will receive friends following the memorial service on Thursday at the Church.

May and Smith Funeral Directors of Sandersville is in charge of these arrangements. www.mayandsmithfuneraldirectors.com