George Laverne Klaus, 86 of Lancaster, Pa. formerly from Butler, Pa. died 10/29/2010 at the Heart of Lancaster Hospital, Lititz, Pa. after a year long battle with cancer.  He was born in Etna, Pa., the son of the late Henry and Eleanor Klaus.

George was a torch repairman for Armco (AK Steel) for 40 years and retired in 1986.  He served in the US Army during WWII.

George was inducted into the Butler Sports Hall of Fame.  He lettered in Swimming, basketball and track and field. During his basketball career, he played for the YMCA league and traveled around the country. In the early 1950's he played in a tournament in North Carolina and played against Wilt Chamberlain. 

Surviving is his ex-wife Katharine Peterson, Wisconsin, four daughters, Lynda Tinsley wife of Jimmy, Susan Niggel wife of David, Carol Lindbeck wife of William, and Nancy Liberda wife of Edward. Nine grandchildren, Lorie Cox married to Micheal, William VanWormer married to Jeannine, David Niggel married to Angela, Greg Niggel, Elizabeth Liberda, Megan Lindbeck, Anna Lindbeck, Christopher Liberda, Marc Lindbeck. Five Great Grandchildren, Victoria Fratz, Alan VanWormer, Elissa Niggel, Rebecca Niggel, Hailea Koep.  Nephews and great nephews.

George was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Jennifer Lindbeck.

To send an online condolence or for more information please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, Lititz PA 717-560-5100