Racine – Jeffery Russell O'Claire, affectionately known to many as "Ogie", age 53, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Sunday, March 19, 2017.

A lifetime resident, Jeff was born in Racine on December 16, 1963 to Russell and Roberta "Bobbie" (nee: Rehbein) O'Claire. He was a graduate of JI Case High School "Class of 1982".

As an extreme sports fan, Jeff enjoyed the Brewers and Packers / and had an extensive collection of sports memorabilia. He also had a great passion for music – especially for the Grateful Dead. As a drummer, Jeff was in the Kiltie Kadets and played in Blind Ambition for many years. Above all, Jeff was head over heels for his adorable 2-year-old granddaughter, Elloise, who called Jeff "Grandpa Ogie".

Surviving are his son, Matthew (Elizabeth Cascio) O'Claire; daughter, Melissa O'Claire; granddaughter, Elloise; mother, Bobbie O'Claire; sisters, Deborah "Debbie" (Brett) McDonald and Sandra (husband, Sam Hanna) O'Claire; niece, Dr. Jessica McDonald, DVM; nephew, Kristofer (Katie) McDonald; former wife, Francine O'Claire; lifelong best-friend, Jon Lemke; other relatives and many friends too numerous to mention all by name.

Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Russell O'Claire, Sr. and infant brother, Russell O'Claire, Jr.

A Memorial Service celebrating Jeff's life will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 1:00 pm with Jeff's childhood friends, Captains Geoff and Leti Crowell, officiating. A reception will follow. Visitation will be held in the funeral home on Saturday from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Jeff would want you to come dressed to his funeral like he would have remembered you in life. In lieu of flowers, please bring a stuffed animal to the service which will be donated to children in need.

Service Details

Memorial Service: Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 1:00 pm in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home

Visitation: Saturday, March 25th from 11 am until 1 pm in the funeral home