Clair D. Atherton, age 68, of Barryton, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2011 in Grand Rapids. He was born in Eagle, MI on July 8, 1943 to Edward and Fern (Sweet) Atherton. On March 22, 1969 he married Janet Woodrow in Wacousta, Michigan. They made their home in the surrounding area and attended the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church. After Clair retired in 2001 they moved to Barryton where they could enjoy fishing together. Clair was an avid hunter and had a giving spirit. Clair is survived by two brothers Robert Atherton of Portland and Edward (Sally) Atherton of Grand Ledge; four sisters, Nora Dietrick of Nashville, Mary Dean of Delton, Kathy Petersen of Las Vegas, NV and Eleanor (Richard) Newcomer of Wayland and many nieces, nephews and close friends who loved him as family. Clair was preceded in death by his beloved wife Janet in 2007, three brothers, Ralph, Michael and LeRoy, one sister Elizabeth and his parents. A graveside memorial will take place 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 19, 2011 at Brown Cemetery in Barryton.