Jan. 26, 1932 - Nov. 22, 2024
Date of Service: Dec. 4, 2024
Service Program
BURLEY – Clair Riley Cutler, born January 26, 1932, in Preston, Idaho, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2024, at the age of 92, surrounded by his family.
Clair was the son of Orvid Ray Cutler and Lavinia Nielsen Cutler. He grew up in Preston, where he was an active participant in the ROTC program throughout his high school years. After graduating, Clair attended the University of Utah, earning his bachelor’s degree, and it was during this time that he married Merlene Gilbert. Together, they had four children: Clair Riley Cutler Jr. (Sharon), Marian Isaacson (Ken), Janet Rodenbaugh (Dave), and Amy Cutler.
In pursuit of his passion for medicine, Clair followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, graduating from medical school at Northwestern University. After completing his education, Clair returned to Preston, where he practiced medicine alongside his father in the family practice. Later, Clair decided to pursue a specialty in orthopedics, which led him and his family to Panama, where he attended the Gorgas Hospital Orthopedic Program.
Upon completion of his training, Clair and his family moved to Pocatello, Idaho, where Clair practiced as an orthopedic specialist at St. Anthony Hospital. It was there that he met Judy Garcia, a nurse at the hospital. Together with Judy and her seven children: Joe Garcia Jr., Cynthia Wren (Ralph), Joaquin Garcia, Felicia Roach (Scott), Sabrina Williamson (Tom), Valencia Garcia and Jason Garcia (Norma), Clair began a new chapter of his life. Their growing family would include three more children: Jennifer Cutler, Clarissa Cutler-Evans (JV), and Orvid Ray Cutler III (Maria).
Clair and his family later moved to Burley, Idaho, where he continued his orthopedic practice for 12 years. Afterward, Clair and Judy made their way to Arizona, where Clair eventually retired from his distinguished career in medicine.
Throughout their years together, Clair and Judy built their dream home on the beautiful Snake River in Burley, Idaho. They enjoyed their time playing golf, tending to their yard, and sharing the home with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who cherished many memorable seasons at the property.
Clair was preceded in death by his parents, Orvid Ray Cutler and Lavinia Cutler; his sister, Carol Wright; his brother, Orvid Ray Cutler II; his sons, Joaquin Garcia and Joe “Little Joe” Garcia. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his 12 children, 40 grandchildren, and multiple beautiful great-grandchildren.
Clair will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his career, and his community. His kind heart, sense of humor, and lifelong commitment to caring for others will leave a lasting legacy.
The family would like to thank the staff at Highland Estates for their care of Clair in his final days.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 4, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, located at 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, with Bishop Ben Guercio officiating. Family and friends will be received at the funeral home from 9 until 9:45 a.m. prior to the service.
A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. following the service at Preston Cemetery in Preston, Idaho.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Clair’s memory.
