Claire Dean Bismark died on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at Golden Horizons in Sandstone.  He was 86 years old.

Claire was born in a maternity home in Grandy, MN on August 16, 1938. His parents were Clarence Bismark and Geraldine Larson Bismark. As an infant he lived in Stanchfield, MN and then moved to Grasston, MN where he spent the rest of his growing up years. He attended Grasston Elementary and Braham High Schools. As a child, he spent many summers on one or the other grandparents' farms. He loved farm life and always hoped to have a farm one day. As a youth he enjoyed boy scout activities, playing ball with his buddies, and just enjoying the carefree life of a child. On July 8, 1961 he married Sharon Jean Mattson of Rush City. They had three children. Claire worked for the Great Northern Railroad, Spanner Inc. the Malleable Foundry, and then drove propane truck for Federated Coops Inc. Claire retired from Federated after driving truck for 45 yrs. The "farmer" enjoyed working in the yard and garden. He was always picking rocks, cutting brush, or growing an abundant garden. Claire loved spending time with his family and his grandchildren were a real joy.

Claire is survived by his wife, Sharon; sons, Kevin (Janice), Keith (Amber) and daughter, Karen (Chad) Mitchell. Claire is also survived by sisters, Sharon (Curtis) Johnson, Sandra (Al) Thomas, Sheila Jap; seven grandchildren, Casey, Lucas, Gunner, Grace, Isabella, Alydia and Jake.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Finlayson United Methodist Church with Minister Clara Edin, SAM officiating.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 5 until 7 P.M. at Methven Funeral Home in Sandstone as well as one hour prior to the service at the church.  Honorary casket bearers are Casey Shawstad, Lucas Shawstad, Gunner Sorenson, Grace Sorenson, Isabella Marchand Alydia Mitchell and Jake Bismark.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services.