Clayton B. Armitage, age 87 of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully in his home with his family by his side on Monday, September 9, 2019. Clayton was born in Harbor Beach on October 7, 1931, the son of Pearson and Mary (Boeckh) Armitage. He honorably served in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant in the military police while stationed in Germany. After graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in journalism, his career included a police officer, a journalist, advertising manager, and owner/operator of The Sun and Snow in Cadillac and then the Big Rapids Motel and Three Knights Inn in Big Rapids. Clayton is survived by his three loving children, Sherry Gile, Wendy (Chris Bothe) Armitage and Brad (Diann)Armitage; as well as grandchildren, Ryan (fiance Kate Root) Gile, Jamie (Patrick) Ruhland and Samantha Armitage; and brother, Jerry (Lynne) Armitage; many nieces and nephews; and friends, Leroy Robinson and Mark and Kay MacIver. He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Janet Rogers and Peter Armitage; his dear friend, Roy Johnston; and his beloved cocker spaniels, Brandy and Abby. He had a love for dogs, enjoyed traveling, reading military history and crime novels, and spending time with his family. He has left us with rich memories. Viewing to be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (noon) at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Claytons name to the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center in Reed City. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family by clicking the guestbook tab at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Visitation Wednesday, September 11, 2019 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,Michigan 49307