SALEM-Claude J. Brogan, 86, of Salem, died Friday morning at Salem Community Hospital.

Born Jan. 8, 1923, in Alliance, he was the son of the late Ross and Daisy (Manypenny) Brogan.

As a senior in high school he worked at the Brogan Dairy delivering milk. He was a farmer for a majority of his life, retiring in 1966. He also operated the Case Equipment Business in the early 50s, owned and operated the Diamond Feed and Supply Co. for 21 years from 1950-1971. He bred and raised many ponies in the 1950s and 60s, was instrumental in starting the Palmyra Fire Department in 1954, helped to build the fire station and was an honorary member to date, and was the owner of C. J. Brogan Realty and was a broker for 40 years.

He attended the Berlin Center United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Lonetta A. (Brown) Brogan, whom he married Jan. 20, 1974; seven children, James Lee Brogan of Alliance, Claudia J. (Robert) Lewis of Ravenna, Cindy (Dexter) Le-Mon of Diamond, Robert Clegg of Tulsa, Okla., Rhonda (Byron) Bigelow of Austintown, Russell (Amy) Brogan of Thomasville, Ga., Robyn (Jeff) Biery of Salem; 17 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers, Clyde Brogan of Norwalk and a twin brother, Claire Brogan of North Benton; and a sister, Lois Campbell of Canton.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Gednetz-Ruzek Funeral Home with the Rev. Russell Libb officiating.

Calling hours will held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Berlin Center United Methodist Church 15611 W. Akron-Canfield Road, Berlin Center 44401.

Friends may send condolences and sign the guest register online at www.grfuneralhome.com.

2/14/09