Lt. Col. Clyde M. Decker, a longtime Malibu resident, died March 14 at age 80.
He was born on Feb. 6, 1923 in Baton Rouge, La. Dedicating his life to his country, Decker was a decorated Air Force veteran who served in World II, was recalled during the Korean conflict and served again in Vietnam.
A descendant of the original Decker family that helped to pioneer Malibu, he came to Malibu over dirt canyon roads with his parents, Atha and Florence Decker, when he was only 6 years old. He was one of the first students at Decker School, which was one of the first schools in Malibu.
Decker retired to Malibu in 1969 after his final tour of duty. He is survived by his wife, Judy; two sons, Randy and Chris; their wives, Nicole and Bonny; and comrades and close friends.
A private graveside service will take place on Saturday, March 22 at 11 a.m., at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park, Westlake Village (818.889.0902). In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Lt. Col. Clyde M. Decker’s name to the hospice program at VITAS Healthcare of California, 16030, Ventura Blvd. #600, Encino, CA 91436; or to the charity of your choice.