Ruth, Jasmine, and Zoe, Bill and Eileen,Leeane and family,
The first time I remember hearing about Clayton was when Ruth was coaching wheelchair rugby. At the time, we were both working in the "old" Wascana Rehab Centre building. There was a certain team member for whom she spent quite some time deciding on the perfect Xmas present. I think she chose a cable TV subscription. Soon it became clear why she had given it so much thought! Meeting Clayton, it also became clear why Ruth was so interested. He was unique - his whole joie de vivre and determination, his warm and friendly manner, his indisputable, absolute capability. It freaked me out the first time I saw him jump out of his truck, stand up on his spasms, and grab his chair from the back. And of course he didn't need any help. He had it cased!

Clayton was a pioneer in wheelchair sports, a pioneer in deciding that the wheelchair was not going to define him or his life - or if it was, he would write a whole new definition. The wheelchair became just another mode of transportation, not a liability or a limitation. And it seemed that Clayton had no limits. In his modest, down-to-earth manner, he made it seem that anyone could set an impossible goal and make it come true. Because he did, over and over again. He set his standard for excellence and worked until he got there. He was incredibly self-disciplined, training on the highway or on his rollers day in and day out. He won Olympic gold medals and set world records, consistently, for so many years. He was an "ordinary" guy who did extraordinary things.

As a young father, we were all astounded to see him as the main caregiver for baby Jasmine when Ruth went back to work after 6 months of mat leave. With Jasmine perched (precariously?!) on his lap, he would wheel around the house and do whatever needed to be done. It all became so commonplace. Zoe, a much more rambunctious, unpredictable baby, actually scared Clayton, I think (a feat, I believe, accomplished by little in this life. Clayton lived his life fearlessly.)

Clayton was a friend and mentor to so many - to those who had experienced life-changing, catastrophic events, and, equally, to those who experienced life! With all the travelling and accolades for being the outstanding world-class athlete that he was, Clayton remained very much the "guy next door" who was fun to invite over for dinner and have a drink with.

Clayton was a tremendous athlete, a wonderful human being, a compassionate friend who often reached out to others. I think it's true to say that thousands of people are better people because of Clayton. We feel so fortunate to have known him.

Our hearts go out to you, Clayton's beloved. May memories of his laughter and love lighten these dark days.

As a Customer Sales & Service Agent with Air Canada for over thirty years it was my pleasure to see and chat with Clayton on many occasions as he frequented the airport almost as much as an employee. It was always a treat to catch up on his latest race or adventure. He was so refreshing in his low key manner, talking about an achievement (only when asked to do so I might add) in his matter of fact tone.

My condolences to all Clayton held near and loved.

We know the Gerein family from horse back riding with Zoe and Jasmine. Clayton was an amazing horse show Dad, and wonderful company at a show. He was so proud of his girls and their accomplishments. A man of incredible heart with a beautiful sense of humor. Knowing Clayton was such a positive experience. Our thoughts are with you Ruth, Zoe and Jasmine.

I first met Clayton in the running circuit about 20 years ago. The world of running and athletics was the catalyst that brought us together at that time. I was a newcomer to Canada in the 1980's and was experiencing some challenges with adapting to my new environment and overcoming trauma from my experiences in the civil war in Ethiopia. The thing that stands out in my mind about Clayton is that he was very compassionate, always taking the time to listen and show you that he cared. Clayton was instrumental in guiding me with how the Canadian system and culture worked.
Clayton and I travelled to the United States for racing competitions in the 1990’s on several occasions. I got to know him quite well during these trips and we became good friends.
Clayton was always giving back to the community and others. I know he touched so many people in a positive way. He always made the seemingly impossible, possible.
I was very happy to see Clayton recently this past November at the Saskatchewan Legislature for the Vancouver 2010 provincial torchbearer’s conference. Clayton did not let on that anything was different than usual. I was in total shock to hear of his passing last week.
He will truly be missed by everyone he knew. What a wonderful person and friend.
To Ruth, Zoe, and Jasmine, please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.
Ted Jaleta

WOW...what can i say...this is the guy who i first met at wascana. always telling me to get out of my power chair and get into the manual...i could be having the worse day, and see clayton, he made my days happy. he always made me smile and never, ever once judged me. he came to my house, thot it was so awesome that i had an elevator. i mean, do we cry, and mourn the loss of a great friend, our do we smile, and laugh at the good memories that clayton brought to us. i know he was never down, always a fighter, and made me a believer...because of his knowledge and wisdom and kind words, i have recorded, produced, and been selling my own music. not oly that, but because of the way i seen clayton "PAY IT FORWARD" it has motivated me to start down my career path as a social worker, so i can 1 day put smiles on peoples faces, just like clayton did...

im gonna miss u clayton, but im gonna live my life happy and full of joy, just like you, and when i pray for you and your family, i will tell god to clear a path because you are coming to take gold....i love u buddy

I only briefly met Clayton at a race once. It was quite evident that he was well known and highly admired within the race community, and no doubt outside of it as well. I am very sad to hear of his passing. My thoughts go out to his family and loved ones. Stay strong!

We will never forget the Clayton we knew sitting on the porch in Warm Springs Georgia, always with a smile, or at the after celebrations of the Riverside Rumble, and at the Mexican food restaurant after Bloomsday. There are so many memories, these are just a few that Saul and I have. Of course there are the overwelming number of victories we saw him take with the greatest of class, sportsmanship and respect for all his competitiors, coaches, event managers, teammates, and friends.

Clayton is an inspiration to us all. It is obvious that he will be missed by all who knew him. We loved every minute of precious time spent with Clayton. It is not good bye, it is see ya later our friend.

To Ruth, Jasmine and Zoe,
Sorry to hear about your loss. My heart felt sympathies go out to you.

I have enjoyed many a good time over the years with Clayton. He was a true spirit. and will be sorrily missed.

Brent

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ruth, Jasmine, Zoe and all extended family and friends.

Clayton's passing has been difficult for us to process but as I think of Clayton I think of a man with great conviction for the things and people he believed in. I also remember him as a humble person who never bragged about his accomplishments and just wanted to be seen as an ordinary guy. When Clayton and I worked together at CPA I was always amazed at how he was at times embarrassed to talk about his athletic accomplishments. In fact, when I asked him why he said. "Sport got me where I am today but I have an old lady, two kids and horses that's all I need. My job is give to other people."

I have never forgotten that conversation and the many laughs in between. We may have not also agreed but the good memories are what I will cherish. Thanks for being part of our lives Clayton. You will be missed but forever respected.

May God's presence see Clayton's family and friends through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you

My deepest and sincere condolences to Clayton's family. I too was paid a visit by Clayton when I was in the Wascana Rehab Centre. He was a very inspirational person and he has touched many lives. May God give you comfort in this sorrowful time.