Clare Allen Cargo

Clare Allen Cargo, 71, of Decatur, passed away on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at his residence. A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 12 PM at Newell Chapel, 83313 M51, Decatur, with Pastor Michael Heflin officiating. Burial will follow at Hamilton Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 10 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Battle Creek VA Medical Center Community and Volunteer Service (135), 5500 Armstrong Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.newellchapel.com. Clare was born on February 1, 1947 in South Haven to Marion & Cora (Willis) Cargo. He graduated as Salutatorian from Bangor High School in 1965 and continued his education at Michigan State University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. Clare proudly served our country in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971 in the 101st Airborne as a sharp shooter and marksman. On May 26, 1973, he married the love of his life, Sandra Morehead, in Paw Paw. After he returned home from deployment, Clare worked for the Michigan State Department of Agriculture for 29 years. Some days on the job he would walk up to 25 miles inspecting the health of the fields and crops. Clare enjoyed mowing his lawn, racing cars and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans & Detroit Lions. He was an incredibly helpful man who will be missed dearly by all. Clare is survived by his wife of nearly 45 years, Sandra; daughters, Cynthia Cargo and Kathy (Justin) Canda; granddaughter, Evelyn Canda; siblings, Carl (Sally) Cargo and Kenneth (Joyce) Cargo; sister-in-law, Louise Cargo; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces & great-nephews. Clare was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Cora; and brother, George Cargo.