Claudiu Dorian Pruteanu

Claudiu Dorian Pruteanu, 60, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at his home in Kasson, Minnesota.

Claude was born in 1964, and grew up in Brasov, Romania. He graduated from Andrei Saguna high school in town and attended the University of Transylvania, where he received his master’s degree in mechanical engineering. He married Cecilia, and immigrated United States in 1993. They raised their daughters together in Batavia, Illinois.

He began his career in the States working at Fox Valley Forge, Inc. and then Caterpillar. After his divorce in 1998, he moved to Green Bay to work for Manitowoc Cranes. He finally settled in Minnesota when he came to McNeilus as an engineer. During his time as an employee there, he contributed to several patented designs. Claude then began his LLC, CIG Engineering. Over the years, he worked for companies RDM, Contech, and Opal Fuels. Claude took immeasurable pride in his work.

Claude’s family and friends are his legacy. From his teenage years, to his 60th birthday fest this July, he brought people together. He gave from his heart. He told anyone who would listen about his daughters and grandchildren. The loved ones he leaves behind share beautiful memories - receiving help when they struggled, roaring with laughter at a neighborhood party, visiting with his family from Romania, or just sharing a beer on a Sunday afternoon.

Claudiu was preceded in death by his parents, Stefan and Mariana Pruteanu. He is survived by his two daughters, Ioana Gross and Christina Brown; his sister, Corina, and brother-in-law Victor. He leaves behind 7 grandchildren - Colton, Jalyn, Jaxon, Leah, Leo, Evelyn, and Jordy, as well as two nieces, Laura and Diana.  And of course, Gus the goldendoodle.

The family would like to thank all the special people in Claude’s life who became his family after he moved to Minnesota. To Jessica Ditlevson and her family, they are exceptionally grateful.

A celebration of life will be held at his daughter’s home on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 3:00-6:00 pm at 1205 7th St NW in Dodge Center, MN.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55940 (507) 634-6510. Blessed be his memory.