Charles McClain

Charles "Chuck" Junior McClain, 69, of Central Lake, died Monday, June 25, 2012, at Munson Hospital in Traverse City, MI, after a long but courageous battle with cancer.

He leaves his adoring family, including his wife of 44 years, Marion Gale McClain, their son, Jason McClain and wife Renee; daughter, Rachel Alegre and husband Jorge; daughter, C. Allison Wragge and husband Roger; two grandchildren, Reese Emerson McClain and Charlie Allen Wragge, who was named after him; brother, Glenn McClain, and sister Carol Valdez. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Born and raised in Beech Grove, IN, he entered this world on June 13, 1943, as the son of Charles and Verna McClain. Chuck was an avid sportsman who not only excelled in high school athletics, being named Athlete of the Year for basketball, but also went on to play baseball at Indiana State University. He graduated in 1967 with a BS in Education. Chuck's talent in baseball did not go unnoticed; he pitched for a semi-professional baseball team in Indianapolis and was also scouted by a professional team. Chuck's first teaching position was in Greensburg, IN. While there, he met his future wife, Marion Gale Heath of Rushville, IN. They married in 1968. After relocating to Illinois, Chuck began his successful coaching and teaching career at Gardner High School in Gardner, IL. He taught Driver's Ed and Science, and also coached girls' basketball and boys' baseball. With a great passion for basketball, and being a lifelong player of the sport, he found his joy coaching the girls, leading many of his teams to state sectionals. Years later, many of his former players still remember him as the most devoted and inspiring coach they have ever had. He was not only admired by his players, but also by opposing coaches - so much so, one even credited a specific maneuver to Chuck, going so far as to name it after him. Mr. McClain was not only a wonderful coach to his high school team players, but also to his own children; his two daughters went on to succeed in college athletics, just like their father - with many thanks to his devotion and support.

After retiring in 1999, Chuck and Gale relocated to Central Lake, MI. He enjoyed collecting and restoring antiques, running The Moonkeeper Bed and Breakfast with Gale, fishing, snowmobiling, boating with friends, and sports.

Chuck touched the hearts of many people throughout his life, and held on to his sense of humor all the way to the end. Friends and family are invited to celebrate him with a Memorial service on July 6th at First Congregational Church in Central Lake at 1:00 p.m. A gathering will be held following the Memorial service from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at their home.

Memorial donations may be made to the 1st Congregational Church Parish Nurse Program, PO BOX 326, Central Lake, MI, 49622 or Munson Manor Hospitality House, 1220 Medical Campus Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684.

Arrangements have been handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.