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Basic Information: Clinton Eastwood Sr.
Clinton Eastwood Sr. (June 11, 1906 – July 21, 1970) was a prominent business executive, widely known as the father of celebrated actor and filmmaker Clint Eastwood. Born in San Francisco, Clinton Sr. lived a significant portion of his life in Piedmont, California, before eventually settling in Pebble Beach. His sudden passing in 1970 was a result of an apparent heart attack at the age of 64.
Clinton Eastwood Sr. spent much of his professional career as a general sales manager for Container Corporation of America, one of the largest paperboard packaging companies at the time. His management and leadership skills were further recognized when he took on a managerial role at the Pacific Coast branch of Georgia Pacific Co., another significant company in the paper and building products industry.
Personal Life and Family
Clinton Eastwood Sr. married Margaret Ruth Runner (later Eastwood-Wood) in 1927. Together, they had two children, a son, Clinton Eastwood Jr. (known as Clint Eastwood), and a daughter, Jeanne Eastwood, who later became Mrs. William Bernhardt. The Eastwood family lived in Piedmont for many years, but in his later years, Clinton Sr. resided in Pebble Beach with his wife, Ruth, and their daughter, Jeanne.
Clint Eastwood, their son, rose to international fame as a Hollywood actor and director, known for iconic roles in films such as *Dirty Harry* and *The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly*. Clint Eastwood Sr.’s influence on his son’s upbringing is well noted, with Clint being a graduate of Oakland Technical High School, further establishing his roots in California.
At the time of his passing, Clinton Sr. left behind his wife Ruth, his two children, and four grandchildren, all of whom shared in the deep grief of losing a beloved family figure.
Clinton Eastwood Sr.’s son: Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood, born Clinton Eastwood Jr. on May 31, 1930, in San Francisco, is a legendary actor and filmmaker known for his rugged on-screen persona and prolific directing career. The son of **Clinton Eastwood Sr.**, a bond salesman and manufacturing executive, and Ruth Wood, Eastwood grew up in Piedmont, California. His early interest in music and mechanics didn’t hint at his future stardom, but after a stint in the military and brief studies at L.A. City College, Eastwood pursued acting full-time. He gained widespread recognition with his role as “The Man with No Name” in Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns, which solidified his status as a global star. Eastwood’s career continued to flourish with iconic roles like Dirty Harry, and he later became an acclaimed director, winning multiple Academy Awards for films such as *Unforgiven* and *Million Dollar Baby*. Over the decades, Eastwood’s contributions to cinema have made him one of Hollywood’s most enduring figures. His father, **Clinton Eastwood Sr.**, played a significant role in his upbringing, and though Eastwood eventually eclipsed his father’s public profile, their family roots remain an essential part of his story.
Clinton Eastwood Sr.’s Final Days and Memorial
On July 21, 1970, Clinton Eastwood Sr. passed away at his home in Pebble Beach due to an apparent heart attack. His sudden death came as a shock to his family and friends. His contributions to his community and his legacy in business were remembered fondly.
A memorial service was held the following day at the Church of the Wayfarer in Carmel, officiated by Dr. Herbert W. Neale. His interment took place at the Little Chapel by the Sea Crematory in Pacific Grove. The family requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Monterey Institute of Speech and Hearing, reflecting his commitment to community causes.
Clinton Eastwood Sr.’s Legacy
Despite living somewhat in the shadow of his famous son, Clinton Eastwood Sr. led an accomplished life on his own terms. His work as a business executive with Container Corporation of America and Georgia Pacific Co. earned him respect and recognition in the industry. He played a vital role in shaping the future of these companies and helping them to expand on the West Coast.
His personal wealth, although not publicly disclosed in detail, reflected the successful career he had built. However, his net worth pales in comparison to the fame and fortune his son, Clint Eastwood, would go on to amass in the world of entertainment. Nonetheless, Clinton Sr.’s own achievements, both in business and as a father, are remembered with admiration.
Family Lineage and Roots
Clinton Eastwood Sr. was born into a family of modest beginnings. His father, Burr Eastwood Sr. (1871–1963), and mother, Jesse Mabel Anderson Eastwood (1874–1925), had instilled in him values of hard work and determination. He was the younger sibling of Burr Eastwood Jr., who passed away in the same year as Clinton, 1970.
The Eastwood family’s history, with roots in San Francisco and Piedmont, California, reflects a deep connection to the Golden State. Clinton Sr.’s marriage to Ruth Runner and their family life in California would set the stage for the Eastwood legacy, particularly as their son, Clint Eastwood, would become one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.
Conclusion
Clinton Eastwood Sr.’s legacy is a testament to his dedication as a business executive and a family man. His passing in 1970 left a significant void, but his memory lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched throughout his career. His contributions to the business world, coupled with the love and support he provided to his family, particularly his famous son Clint Eastwood, ensures that the name Clinton Eastwood Sr. will be remembered for generations to come.
