Dr. Dave Clayton

Dr. H. David Clayton, affectionately known to many as “Doc Clayton,” passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and quiet strength that touched many lives.

Born January 2, 1939, in Hopkins, Missouri, he grew up on a farm in southwest Iowa, helping with the family harvest and learning the values that guided him throughout his life. He cherished his horse Cactus, whom he rode to school each day. He graduated from a high school class of nine students, where he played baseball and basketball, performed in the school band and played piano at church. It is also where met the love of his life, Kay.

He attended the University of California, Davis, where he wrestled and was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. He continued to earn his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Iowa State University.

“Doc” devoted his life to veterinary medicine. He spent over 40 years with Glen Ellyn Animal Hospital, where his dedication, compassion, and work ethic were unmatched. Respected throughout the community, he built lasting relationships and touched the lives of countless pets, families, and colleagues alike.

Throughout his career, he was also recognized in the National Registry of Who’s Who in Veterinary Medicine in the United States, was instrumental in opening Illinois’ first emergency veterinary hospital, and established several veterinary practices throughout the western suburbs.

Beyond veterinary medicine, he was deeply committed to community service and leadership in Glen Ellyn. Over the years, he was actively involved with the Glen Ellyn Rotary Club, B.R. Ryall YMCA, Glen Oak Country Club, Community Bank of Glen Ellyn, and the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce. 

He enjoyed golfing, exercising at the YMCA, watching old westerns, and his nightly bowl of popcorn. A dedicated martial artist, he also earned a black belt in Taekwondo. Above all, he cherished his family. He took great pride in attending his grandchildren’s games, school events, and activities. His love and devotion to his family will be forever remembered.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Kay; his son David; daughter Susan (Chuck); and his grandchildren Evelyn, Samantha, Lillian, Ryan, and Zack. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eula and Harry Clayton.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of his life on Sunday, June 7, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., with remarks and shared memories beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Leonard Memorial Home, 565 Duane St., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the following: The BR Ryall YMCA, to support educational opportunities for underprivileged children: https://www.brryallymca.org/donate/ or by mail to 49 Deicke Drive, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137; or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: https://give.cff.org/tribute/daveclayton or by mail 4550 Montgomery Ave., Suite 1100 N, Bethesda, MD 20814