Charles Francis Clausen

Charles Francis Clausen August 24, 1950 – May 12, 2026 “He whom you love and lose is no longer where he was before. He is now wherever you are.” - St. John Chrysostom Charlie was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 24, 1950, the youngest of eight children to his loving parents, Hans Rasmus Clausen (born in Toftlund, Denmark) and Helen Eileen (Lamping) (born in Illinois). He was baptized at St. Nicholas Church in Illinois and served as an altar boy in the Catholic church. During his youth, Charlie loved the outdoors, camping, fishing, playing baseball and basketball. He often enjoyed these activities with his siblings, and close friend Bob Scott, with whom he maintained a close friendship throughout his life. He excelled in his studies, especially English and Mathematics and at one point considered teaching. Charlie graduated from Bishop O-Dowd High School in 1968 and attended St. Mary’s College in Moraga on a scholarship. Charlie's love for sports would stay with him throughout his life. He was a big fan of the Oakland A’s, Golden State Warriors, and many other Bay Area sports teams. He had a particular fondness for horse racing and frequented Golden Gate Fields. He met, and fell in love with Carolyn Ann Ambrose, while both worked as Aircraft Electricians at Alameda Naval Air Station. They were married on May 20, 1972, just five years after the Supreme Court’s decision to end legal bans on interracial marriage. They raised four children and enjoyed 19 years of marriage before Carolyn passed away in 1992. Charlie epitomized a family man. He was a great cook and the primary chef for his family, with the ability to whip up creations of all kinds. He either coached or attended every athletic event that his children participated in and was their #1 fan. He also instilled in his children a strong work ethic and value for treating all people well, equally, and fairly, regardless of their circumstances. He had a fondness for animals, particularly dogs, including his beloved Mimi, Pepper, Benny, and Lady. Charlie also cherished his large community of friends. He enjoyed golfing and would frequently facilitate golf tournaments to bring friends together and raise funds for community groups such as the “Benicia Boosters.” Charlie was also an exceptional storyteller and would fellowship with friends, including Bruce Adams, and others, at the “Bottom of the Fifth.” He will be remembered for his wit, charm, and laughter. His kindness and words of encouragement touched many lives. Charlie is survived by two sisters Judy and Kathleen, children Patrick James, Arthalia James, Heidi Clausen, and Kim Johnson (Marvin), 8 grandchildren (who called him “Papa”) Joseph, Jasmyn, Pat, Latrice, Omar, Aaron, Asha, and Isaiah and 6 great-grandchildren (who called him “Big Papa”) and a host of family and friends who love him dearly and will forever hold him in their hearts. Please click on this link for “A Toast to Charlie!” to view a photo montage, accompanied by his favorite songs (created by his granddaughter, Asha). Please note that there is a link to a photo montage. It is hyperlinked below but if the link is needed it is: https://youtu.be/x2GqE6Pl_G8

Charles Francis Clausen

August 24, 1950 - May 12, 2026