Clay L Carmean

Clay L. Carmean, age 64, went home to be with the Lord on July 8, 2024. He was born January 8, 1960. Clay was inquisitive at an early age and his keen intellect drove all his pursuits. His passion was aviation, putting his skills as a master mechanic to work maintaining, building and restoring planes and helicopters. Clay is preceded in death by his son, Clark Carmean, granddaughter, Nora Larson, father, Earl David Carmean, grandparents, Paul and Virginia Leedom, and his beloved dog, Charlie. Clay is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Cheryl (Hitch) Carmean, daughters, Morgan (Steve) Walkowiak of Ashville, Sarrah (Brad) Larson of Columbus, Lori (Brian) Pickens of Galloway, Kelli (Jordan) Shoemaker of Galloway, grandchildren, Sydney and Owen Walkowiak, Vance Larson, Jennafer, Kimberly, and Brian Pickens, mother, Connie Carmean of Hallsville, brother, Stacey Carmean of Hallsville, sister, Channin (Mike Smith) Carmean of Circleville, aunts, Jean Carter, Carol Sue Slagle and his loyal companion Mikie. After graduating from Zane Trace High School, Clay began what would culminate a 46 year career in the aviation industry by working for Harral Helicopters as a fieldline mechanic. Continuing his pursuit in aviation, Clay swore into the United States Army and achieved the title of AH-1S Attack Cobra Helicopter Crew Chief/Mechanic (MOS 67Y), Company A 216th Engineer Combat Battalion Corps. He then began a career at Rockwell International working on the B-1B Lancer as an Aircraft Mechanic Lead, while also in the United States Army National Guard as a Specialist 4th Class, Demolition Squad Leader (MOS 12B), and Helicopter Mechanic, 1416th Maintenance (AVIM). Applying the knowledge and the expertise of his field, Clay began working on the Stealth Bomber (classified) and was part of the experimental YF23 Fighter Jet at Northrup Grumin. Furthering his career, Clay was employed with Airborne Express (ABX) for 19 years as a Senior AMP Aircraft Mechanic. Continuing his endeavors he became a Senior Master AMP Aircraft Mechanic for Republic Airways (Chautauqua Airlines) at John Glenn International Airport. Clay concluded his astounding career in aviation working on the Children’s Hospital Monarch 1 Helicopter for Med Flight/Metro Aviation at Don Scott Airfield. In his leisure time, Clay enjoyed fishing and target and trap shooting. He participated in the Amateur Bass Pro Circuit, competing with his youngest daughter, Kelli in trap shooting and target shooting with his son-in-laws and grandchildren. He loved to fish on his bass boat, he had his private pilots license, loved all animals, was a collector of many things, loved building go karts, boats and anything mechanical. He was a supporter of the ASPCA, Madison County Humane Society, FFA and NRA. Clay was a member of the Masonic Lodge 689 as a 32nd Degree Mason, and was also a member of the American Legion Post 164 of Grove City and Ohio Eastern Star of Grove City Chapter 502. Clay was a loving husband, father, and Pap. His love and wisdom will forever be remembered and cherished. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 14, 2024 from 2-4 pm at SCHOEDINGER GROVE CITY 4242 Hoover Rd. where his funeral service will be held on Monday, July 15, 2024 with Rev. William DeOliveira, officiating. Interment at Bethel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Masonic Lodge #689 3558 Park St. Grove City, OH 43123.