Clair James Link, Hermitage, passed away at 11:05 p.m. Tuesday (5-3-16) in Nugent's Convalescent Home, Hermitage. He was 87.

He was born April 4, 1929, in Butler, a son of Henry and Mary McDeavitt Link.

He graduated from Butler High School in 1946.

A decorated veteran, he served in the Army during WWII in the 9th infantry division and achieved the rank of Corporal.

Clair worked as a steel turner for the former National Castings division of Midland Ross Corporation in Sharon for 39 years.

An outdoorsman, he enjoyed both hunting and gardening.

Clair was happiest when spending time with family and his grandchildren who will sadly miss him.

Surviving are: a daughter, Tonja Hulley and her husband Cecil, Sharon; two sons, Richard Thomas, Sharon; and Michael Thomas, Farrell; two step-daughters, Theresa Thomas, Philadelphia; and Rose Phillips, Sharon; three step-sons, Rev. Prophet S. J. Thomas, Farrell; David Merridith, Dallas, Texas; and Gary Thomas, Sharon; four sisters, twin sister, Margaret Arblaster, Slippery Rock; Janet Fleeger and her husband Richard, Butler; Martha Smith and her husband William, Slippery Rock; and Dottie Chuba, Butler; two brothers, Art Link and his wife Dorothy, Hilliards, Pa; and Norman Link and his wife Darlene, Rose Point, Pa; 29 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by: his lifelong love of over 60 years, Ora C. Thomas; his parents; a step daughter, Shirley Davis; five brothers, Dean, Clayton, David, Raymond and Vernon Link; and two sisters, Mary and Mildred Link.

Calling hours: 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday (5-10-16) in J. BRADLEY MCGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY INC.,1090 E. State St., Sharon. Online condolences may be sent to www.mcgoniglefuneralhomeandcrematory. com.

Service: A memorial service at noon Tuesday (5-10-16) in the funeral home chapel with Rev. James Hosey, officiating.