David McClain
September 13, 2012
David Benjamin McClain, 85, died Thursday, September 13, 2012, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. He was born on a farm in Columbianna County, Ohio, to Margaret Jane (Rosser) McClain and William Samuel McClain, on May 13, 1927.
In 7th grade he moved to Philadelphia, PA, where he graduated from N.E. Public High School. Then he enlisted in the Navy during WWII. Following his discharge, he attended Wheaton College in Illinois to study for the Presbyterian ministry. After one year at Wheaton, he switched to pre-med and entered Philadelphia College of Osteopathy, which he completed in 1955. He then interned at Grandview Hospital in Dayton, OH.
In 1956, he established a family practice in Twinsburg, OH. In 1961, he returned to the hospital of Philadelphia College of Osteopathy for a residency in orthopedic surgery, completing this in 1964.
Following this, he moved to Des Moines to teach Orthopedics at what is now Des Moines University. He subsequently taught for eleven years and continued his orthopedic practice at Des Moines General Hospital for twenty-two years.
David was past president of the Iowa Osteopathic Medical Association and a life member of the American Osteopathic Medical Association, also serving in a variety of community activities.
He married Joan Margaret Rogers on September 4, 1950, in Westchester, PA. To this union were born six children: David Benjamin II, Mark Allen, Timothy John, James Dudley, Matthew Paul, and Rebecca Susanne. They celebrated 50 wonderful years of marriage in September 4, 2000, many of which were spent on a farm in Warren County. His family also enjoyed many years boating, camping, and fishing at their townhome in Clear Lake. They also traveled during retirement covering many states. Joan predeceased him in December, 2004.
He is also survived by 12 grandchildren; Katie, Jenny, John, Will, Grace, Ethan, Samantha, Cole, Victoria, Drew, Anna, and Hanna.
During the last few years, he thoroughly enjoyed playing the organ, learning bridge, and traveling. In total, he visited all 48 states. He also thanks Pat Aldrich for the many pleasant experiences at their home in Waukee, and for her companionship and care in recent years.
Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 18, 2012, at Indianola Heights Evangelical Free Church, 3000 SE 9th Street, Des Moines. Interment will occur following services at Scotch Ridge Cemetery near Carlisle. Visitation will be held 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
John Finkbohner
09/25/2012
Jane and I just learned of Uncle Dave's passing and are so sorry for the loss. He touched so many lives and Jane has special memories of how welcomed she was by family when she attended Drake. Our prayers go with him and the family.
Isabelle Abarr
09/17/2012
Dear Pat, You have all my sincere sympathy in losing David. It was such a delight and a highlight of my time working at Critchett's to see your love for each other evolve, and to think that the organ lessons helped bring you together! Your friendship, and your support for my mission trip to Kenya was wonderful, for which I sincerely thank you. If you ever get to Kansas City, I'd love to see you. I hope to visit Des Moines soon but not sure just when. I got married one year ago to a fabulous man here in KC, MO. All my love.
Steven Zukis
09/17/2012
Pat, our thoughts and prayers are with you and David's family. I only had the privilege to meet him a few times, and remember him as a source of strength and comfort during your sister's passing several years ago.
Steve, Katy, Joe & Katerina
David Papich
09/17/2012
We are saddened by the loss of Doc. He will be in our thoughts and prayers to the Lord this week.
Sincerely,
Dave, Sarah, and Grace E. Papich
Angela & Duane Pullen
09/16/2012
Pat -
We are so sorry to read about your loss. We enjoyed knowing and traveling with you and David. Take care.
Deb Coldwell
09/16/2012
I had the privilege of working with Dr. McClain at Des Moines General Hospital in the early 1970s. I remember him fondly as a friendly and gracious man, who was widely respected by both his patients and the hospital staff. I am sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers are with the family.
Randy Kelderman
09/16/2012
Dr. McClain was the father of my good friends in grade school, Tim and Mark. They often opened their home/farm to us (me and my brother Kent). We thought it was a fun family to be with and I am sure that was due in large part to Dr. McClain.
Lynne Wilson
09/15/2012
I was sad to hear of my Uncle Dave's passing. I know that he will be missed by everyone in his family. My prayers are with you all!
Sincerely,
Lynne Wilson