Claude Anton Soudah

Claude Anton Soudah, age 88, passed away peacefully in the early morning of October 9, 2025, in Seattle, Washington.

Claude was born in Bethlehem, Palestine, and grew up in Jerusalem. He loved to add “does that remind you of somebody else you might know?” His childhood was tumultuous after the 1948 war, and his family was sheltered, finding solace in the Catholic church. His quest to become a priest was thwarted when his family could not afford to buy him the required number of socks and undergarments.

As a young man, Claude found his love of banking when he got his first job as a teller at the British Bank of the Middle East in Jerusalem. He immigrated to the United States in 1963 and attended Saint Martin’s College and subsequently the University of Washington where he met his wife, Susan, in the Suzzallo Library.

Claude had a long and storied career as an international banker, working for Seafirst Bank and later Bank of America. His career found him living in London, England, and afforded him the opportunity to travel to 87 countries, an accomplishment he proudly shared. He was an inspiration and mentor to countless people during his over 40-year career. Claude had a special passion for supporting immigrant-owned small businesses and informally coached many from gardeners to his favorite Costco cashier who was launching an import business.

A founding member of the Washington Council on International Trade, Claude served many civic organizations including the Japan-America Society, Washington State China Relations Council, and World Affairs Council. His latest work with the Diocese of Olympia Episcopal Bishop’s Committee for Justice and Peace in the Holy Land was of special importance to him. He recently donated his extensive library of books documenting the history of Palestine to the library at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle.

Claude was a deeply loved husband, father, and friend. A proud grandfather, he delighted in sharing his love of photography, art, and cooking with his grandchildren. Teaching the family recipes of tabbouleh, baklava, and tajan was a favorite activity.

He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Susan; his daughters, Tasha (Doug), Jane (Blake) and Miriam; and his six grandchildren: Flynn, Tate, Jemma, Madeleine, Gavin, and Nicholas. Claude was predeceased by his parents Anton and Jamileh Soudah, his brother Roger Soudah, and his sister Mary Raad.

Claude’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by the many lives he touched and people he fed.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family would appreciate donations to Palestine Children’s Relief Fund www.pcrf.net/donate.

A private burial will be held at Lake View Cemetery for immediate family. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with details announced at www.funerals.coop.