Clair Wesley Tinnell was born November 1, 1915 at Braddyville, Iowa to Harrison Wesley Tinnell and Effie Nola (Foster) Tinnell. He passed from this life on November 10, 2008 in Osceola, Iowa at the age of 93 years.

Clair grew up and was educated in rural Braddyville, Iowa area. After graduation he went to Omaha, Nebraska to barber school; he apprenticed in Seward, Nebraska and had a shop of his own in Gresham, Nebraska. He also worked as a plumber and carpenter and had a small engine repair business.

Clair was united in marriage to Thelma Irene Ridenour on February 5, 1940 at Thedford, Nebraska, and two children blessed this union, Harry Roger and Rebecca. They moved to their present home in Osceola in May 1968.
Clair listened to the Gospel of Jesus in November 1947 in the sand hills of western Nebraska, he gave his heart to the Lord. He was faithful until his death. He was a true leader of the family. Clair was a good father, loving husband and especially loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren. When he wasn't working he enjoyed reading and gardening. Being deaf most of his life never slowed him down; he could hear what most of us can't.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Harrison and Effie Tinnell; brothers, Leeman and Kenneth Tinnell, Bill and Milt Palmer; daughter-in-law, Janiece Tinnell; son-in-law Pete Peterson.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Thelma of Osceola; daughter, Rebecca Peterson , boyfriend, Richard Headrick and grandson Ricky Headrick of Osceola; son Harry Tinnell and wife Margaret of Ogallala, NE; grandson, James Tinnell, Sheila and family of Chapman, NE; grandson, Jeff Tinnell, wife Misty and family of Minatare, NE; granddaughter, Janette Williams, husband Clyde and family of Dannebrog, NE; grandson Jerrold Tinnell, wife Michelle and family of Chapman, NE; grandson, Scott Peterson of Osceola; granddaughter, Kate Peterson of Fort Dodge; grandson, Charles Peterson of Xenia, OH; twelve great grandchildren as well as other relatives and many friends.