Claude Richard McWhorter, 76, died Wednesday, Aug. 29, at Memorial Hospital after having a heart attack.

He was born in San Angelo, Texas to Thurston and Edna Lee McWhorter. The family moved to Southern California when he was a young child.

He and his wife LaVonne moved to Oakdale in November 1972 where they remained and raised their family.

Mr. McWhorter served in the California Army National Guard.

He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers for 56 years. As a heavy duty equipment mechanic and welder, he worked for many companies including large construction companies.

He was a businessman for 22 years, owning and operating four vehicle salvage yards, three of which were in Stanislaus County.

He loved old vehicles and airplanes. His knowledge and fixing of old cars, trucks, and motorcycles was amazing. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, and boating, but spending time with his grandchildren was his greatest joy. He had great love for his family.

Jesus Christ was his Lord and Savior. He attended Sierra Foothills Community Church in Oakdale.

He is survived by his wife, LaVonne of Oakdale; daughter, Sara McCann; sons, Scot and Gary McWhorter; and five grandchildren, of which four attend Riverbank schools.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thurston and Edna Lee McWhorter; and brother, Thurston Robert McWhorter.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 10 at Sierra Foothills Community Church, 1040 West H St., Oakdale.

Remembrances may be made in his name to the Sierra Foothills Community Church benevolent fund, 1040 West H St., Oakdale, CA 95361.