Donald Clasen's Obituary
Donald Andrew Clasen passed away amongst family at home in New Jersey on May 15, 2024, at the age of 60. Don is survived by his wife, Julie; his children Sydney and Maxim; his granddaughter, Sophia; and his parents, Marc and Marcia.
Don was born in New York, New York, but moved to Maryland soon after, where he enjoyed an idyllic childhood. He had immense love for his home state, especially the time he spent on the water in the Chesapeake Bay. He earned a degree in Economics from the University of Maryland and spent much of his career traveling the country as a consultant and was a foremost expert in IT Architecture. He was almost as dedicated to his work as he was to his family, and he loved to take his kids out for fun in the water, a nice meal, or for Slurpees after washing the car.
Don was an ardent lover of life. He was fortunate to have traveled extensively, completed five marathons, frequently hiked and was a certified scuba diver. Most recently he endeavored in song writing, perfecting guitar, and singing, as well as performing with his band, “Rainy Day Sunshine”. Yet with all of these hobbies, he was foremost a passionate family man, a “do the right thing guy” who cherished his role as a husband, father, friend and very recently as a grandfather. One of his expressions of his love of family was through the songs he created this past year, notably "Welcome to The World Sophia Rose'' and "Uncle Marc’s Bridge," honoring his newborn granddaughter and his father.
Don faced his battle with cancer courageously and with a reluctant resignation. Foreseeing the future, he spent quality time with family at the Delaware shore biking, exploring and relaxing at the beach which brought him endless joy.
We find peace knowing that his battle has ended and he is with loved ones gone before him … Jennifer, Marc, Billy, Bobby and others that have pre-deceased him. Though devastated by his loss, this honorable, loving, gifted and kind soul will be forever missed and remembered with transcendent love by his family and friends.
Please keep Don's memory alive by listening to his first and only album, Farley Ave, produced with Rainy Day Sunshine, the culmination of his 20+ years mastering the guitar. https://open.spotify.com/artist/42bBLcl3AihuJvLLJ7qAiC
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Don's name to Hungry for Music: https://hungryformusic.org/support-us/donate/
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