He was born on December 23, 1934, in Ischua, a son of the late Vernon and Lenora (Allen) Clayson, Sr. On December 4, 1978, he married his wife Bozena Vera Mareckova, who predeceased him in 2009.

Mike was a New York State Trooper from 1960-1980. After his retirement in 1980, he owned and operated his lawn mower repair business, called Mike’s Shop until 2006. Also, during the 1980’s he taught small engine repair classes at BOCES.

He liked to play his guitar, and in his younger years, he enjoyed playing guitars with his mother, she was the one that taught him how to play. In the 1960’s and 1970’s he gave guitar lessons at the Olean Music Shop.

Mike was also an avid billiards player and enjoyed traveling with his wife to see professional billiard competitions. While at home he loved watching and reading about every bird that came to his feeder and maintaining his property.

He is survived by 2 daughters, Julie (Arthur) Wentz, Jr. of Olean and Joni (Timothy) Hanchett of Eustis, Florida; a grandson, Arthur Wentz III of Olean; and several nieces and nephews.

Mike was predeceased by his wife, parents, and two siblings Vernon Clayson, Jr. and Virginia (Clayson) Williams.

At his request there will be no public visitation or service. He will be laid to rest with his wife in the Hinsdale Cemetery, Maplehurst, New York.

Arrangements are under direction of the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., Cuba.