George William "Bill" Claus

George William ‘Bill’ Claus, age 89 of Blacksburg died on April 19, 2026. He was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa on August 15, 1936 and was married to Marcella Marie Thompson.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1973, he conducted research in applied microbiology, published more than 30 scientific papers, and developed cooperative learning techniques for large class and published his findings in two textbooks. He received a variety of teaching awards including two Awards of Teaching Excellence by the College of Arts and Sciences, Outstanding Biology Teaching, and the American Society of Microbiology Teaching Award.

His hobbies were vast but centered around conservation and the outdoors including photography, camping, hiking, plants and sustainability.

Bill is survived by his three children, Ann, Steve, Karen and their spouses; his seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Graveside services for Bill’s immediate family were held on April 21, 2026 at the Forest Rest Natural Cemetery, 5970 Grassy Hill Road, Boones Mill, VA. Questions? you can view their site at www.forestrestnaturalcemetery.com or call at (540) 334-5410.

In lieu of flowers, a non-profit memorial gift can be sent to the Neighbors In Need Fund, 2607 Warm Hearth Drive, Suite 100, Blacksburg, VA 24060-62574. Questions? Please call (540) 443-3413.

Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.