It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform the membership of the passing of our retired brother and colleague, Clyde Louis “Wamp” Wampole, age 84, of Owasso, Oklahoma, who passed away peacefully on September 13th, 2026.
Clyde began his career with us here at American Airlines in 1997 and served with dedication as an Overhaul Support Mechanic until his retirement in 2008. Over his 11 years with American Airlines,
Please keep the Wampole family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
A celebration of Clyde’s life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Floral Haven Funeral Home.
In Solidarity,
Local 514 Leadership
Clyde Louis “Wamp” Wampole, 84, of Owasso, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026, at the Claremore Veterans Center in Claremore, Oklahoma.
Clyde was born on March 2, 1942, in Michigan City, Indiana, to Cecil Wayne Wampole and Edna Nina Lula Wampole. His life was filled with adventure, service, and a love for learning. Growing up, Clyde lived in Wisconsin before eventually moving to Delaware, where he graduated from high school in Claymont in 1961. His pursuit of education continued throughout his life, beginning at Eastern Mexico University in 1963. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1971 and a Master’s degree in Higher Education in 1972 from Morehead State University. In 1986, he furthered his education by earning an Associate of Applied Sciences degree from the Community College of the Air Force.
Clyde proudly dedicated more than 31 years of his life to serving his country. His military career began in June 1961 with the United States Air Force, where he served until June 1965. He later served in the United States Navy in 1972 before joining the Oklahoma Air National Guard in June 1976, where he continued his service until July 1995. After an impressive 31 years, 9 months, and 19 days of military service, Clyde retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. Among his honors were the Air and Space Forces Achievement Medal and the National Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Star. His dedication to his country was a source of tremendous pride and reflected his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and integrity.
Beyond his military career, Clyde was a hardworking and talented man who brought his knowledge and skills to many different roles. He worked as a substitute teacher at Booker T. Washington High School in 1973, served with the Oklahoma Military Department in Federal Civil Service from 1976 to 1994, and also worked for Advanced Plastics and American Airlines.
On September 3, 1966, Clyde married Nancy Ellen Rowe. Although their marriage ended in April 1992, it remained an important chapter in his life’s journey. On September 26, 1992, he married Catherine Ellen McGrath Erler, lovingly known as Cathie, in Owasso, Oklahoma. Together, they shared 34 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, family, and countless treasured memories.
Clyde was a man of many talents, interests, and remarkable accomplishments. He had a special passion for woodworking, particularly woodturning, and enjoyed creating beautiful handcrafted pens and pencils. His creativity extended to designing painting projects for Tulsa Town Tolers and the Tulsa Area Decorative Artists, affectionately known as TADA!
An avid outdoorsman and adventurer, Clyde enjoyed fishing, camping, and traveling, especially taking cruises with the girls. He also loved writing stories and reading the western novels of Louis L’Amour. One particularly memorable experience was meeting Mrs. L’Amour, who shared unpublished stories with him, making his admiration for the author even more meaningful.
Among Clyde’s many accomplishments, one he held especially close to his heart was his success in Judo. His skill and dedication earned him the distinction of becoming a qualifying member and sparring partner for the United States Olympic Judo team, an achievement that spoke to his determination, discipline, and competitive spirit.
Clyde believed in giving back to his community and investing in the lives of others. He served in the Civil Air Patrol, volunteered as a Boy Scout leader, and was involved with the Owasso Rambackers and Owasso Soccer Club. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Owasso Rams and Oklahoma Sooners football teams, as well as a devoted Green Bay Packers fan. In true Clyde fashion, he was also happy to cheer for just about anyone playing against the Chicago Bears.
Those who knew Clyde will remember a man whose life was anything but ordinary. From his military accomplishments and love of adventure to his creative talents and dedication to his family, he embraced life with enthusiasm and purpose. His stories, sense of humor, and the many memories he created will continue to bring smiles to those who loved him. Above all, Clyde leaves behind a legacy of service, perseverance, and a life well lived.
Clyde was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Wayne and Edna Nina Lula Wampole; and his sister-in-law, Marilu Streicher.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cathie Wampole; his sons, Joey Wampole, Eric Erler and wife Susan, and Mark Erler and wife Shannon; his sister, Twyla Guyette and husband Rod; his sisters-in-law, Roberta Magera and Clarice Shanks; and his brother-in-law, Carl McGrath.
He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Brandon Erler and wife Brittany, Jordan Erler, Chelsea Powers, and Grant Powers and wife Megan; his great-grandchildren, Kylee Erler and Cohen Powers; along with a tremendous extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
A celebration of Clyde’s life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Floral Haven Funeral Home, with Leonard Pirtle officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be Joey Wampole, Eric Erler, Mark Erler, Darin Blackwell, Bryon DeJarnette, and David Guerrero. Interment will follow at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Claremore Veterans Center Resident Support Fund or to a military or veterans’ association of your choice, honoring Clyde’s lifelong dedication to those who serve.
Clyde’s legacy will live on through the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the many stories that will continue to be shared for generations to come.