Tod E. McCLASKEY A legend of the Pacific Northwest, Tod E. McClaskey, founder of the Thunderbird/Red Lion Inns, has passed away. He lived a long and vigorous life, endured a brief illness, and died in his sleep February 22 with his beloved Maxine by his side. Their marriage spanned 56 years. Tod was 91. Tod is survived by Maxine, and by his four children: Tod Jr. and Jim of Vancouver Washington, Rod of Seattle Washington and Diana of Bend Oregon. He is also survived by two brothers: Glenn ('Spin') of Goldendale Washington, and Don, of Tillamook Oregon. Tod had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, all of which he adored. Tod was born in Missouri on December 5th 1911, but the family moved to The Dalles Oregon when he was a baby. He spent a good part of his youth in Arlington, Oregon, one of 8 children. There he was successful both in the boxing ring and in his early business ventures. Most of Tod's business life was spent in the hospitality industry. He began with a business called the 'Frontier Room' in Vancouver Washington. There he featured many big name entertainers and met a contractor named Ed Pietz. The two became partners. They opened the Coliseum Thunderbird in Portland Oregon which was the first of many properties the partnership built and operated. Over the next 30 years, Red Lion Inns became the largest privately owned hotel chain west of the Mississippi. It was 'the place' to stay. In 1984, the chain was sold to an investment group, led by KKR of New York. But Tod a mere 72 years old, was not ready to retire. He retained numerous Nevada properties, started the Casino Express Airline, and built 2 more motor inns, one in Jackson Wyoming, and one in Bishop California. Though Tod lived in Vancouver most of his life, he adored time spent with Max and his family, but he also loved going home and telling stories of his days growing up through the depression and helping his family. He spoke of shinning shoes for 10 cents as a child, and of falling asleep on the line 'lidding' peaches during a 16 hour shift. His nostalgia manifested in his support for the cultural institutions of The Dalles Oregon, and his support of the Columbia River George Interpretive Center. Tod's passionate demeanor earned him the admiration, affection and loyalty of his many employees. His love of family, as well as people from any and all walks of life touched many. A Memorial Service will be held at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church in Vancouver Washington, 6600 Highland Drive, Friday at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers a contribution may be made to a cancer charity of choice. Published in print on 2/27/2003. Seattle Times