Claud Mclain

Claud Neil McLain, passed on to the next stage of existence February 8, 2016.

Born June 6, 1917 to John Gaylon and Francis Mary Louise McLain in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Claud was preceded in death by: wives Hedvick (Vicky) and Betty; brothers Robert, Paul and sisters Alma and Violet. Claud is survived by children and spouses: Dennis and Linda, Gary and Sue, daughter Claudette and Bill; grandchildren: Celeste, Heather, Kimberly, Joan and Patty; great grandchildren: Meera, Dhilan, Nicholas, Guy, Kathryn, Michaela and Carman.

Claud lived a full life his entire 98 years, 8 months and two days. He grew up in Hegewisch, Illinois where his talent as a musician flourished. He was a successful piano player performing in various Chicago venues such as Al Capone's bar. He led his own big band that performed throughout the Chicago region. Claud had a short stint with Lawrence Welk. He dropped out of school to use his musical skill as the primary bread winner for the family during the great depression. In addition to the piano, Claud played the guitar for barn dances during the late 30's and early 40's and played the accordion in Minnesota at Scandinavian restaurants and events.

He and Vicky moved to Plymouth, Minnesota where they raised their three children. Claud cleared the land in Plymouth and built three houses during the time they lived there. Claud was active in Boy Scouts, Explorers, Band Parent, Western horse shows, Parker's Lake United Methodist Church, Messiah United Methodist Church, music, fishing and hunting. During the war he worked in the Chicago Steel Mills and the Pennsylvania Railroad. He retired from the Milwaukee Road in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Claud was a member of University Park United Methodist Church, Denver, where he played piano for several Valentine Dinner events. His final fundraising piano concert for University Park UMC was held September, 2015, with his son, Dennis playing the double bass. Claud played the piano at lunch times in nursing homes in Florence, South Carolina and the Eastern Star Retirement Center in Denver, where he lived his final years. He said that "he enjoyed playing for the old folks".

In addition to music, Claud loved model trains and planes. With Claud's passing a unique talent of the 20's and 30's Chicago music scene is silenced.