Claussen, Arthur William

Arthur William (Bill) Claussen, of Blacksburg, passed away on Thursday, December 13, 2018. He was 79 years young. Bill was born on September 15, 1939, and raised in Birmingham, AL, as the only child to Arthur William and Helen Charlotte (Baier) Claussen. A true southern gentleman, who cherished his southern roots, he was an only child who enjoyed reading, music, and art.

Bill graduated from Virginia Tech in 1961, serving proudly in the Corps of Cadets, E Company and graduating with a bachelor’s degree, and later a master’s degree, both in vocational education. He was commissioned as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army and served for two years in Ft. Benning, GA.

A professor in architectural design and drafting at New River Community College for more than 20 years, Bill distinguished himself by becoming the recipient of several National Endowment for Humanities grants for projects at NRCC. A “committed bachelor,” Bill met his loving wife, Linda, while working at NRCC.

Bill will be remembered as someone who loved life, his family (especially Linda), and his smile. He was kind, humorous, fun-loving, intelligent, industrious, creative, generous, and was a beloved uncle.

Bill is survived by his wife of 36 years, Linda Capone Claussen, his cousin Gwen and her husband, Don Cottingham, of Mason City, Iowa; as well as and many Capone in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Bill will return to his beloved Birmingham in the spring when the family holds a private graveside inurnment – as Bill closes his circle of memories.

A Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held on January 19 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Warm Hearth Village Center, 2387 Warm Hearth Drive, Blacksburg, VA. If you plan to attend the celebration, please respond to awbillclaussen@gmail.com.