John R. (Dick) McClaren

John Richard (Dick) McClaren passed away on July 29, 2014 at Dogwood Forest in Gainesville, GA.

He was born March 23, 1916, to John A. McClaren and Nellie P. Frasier McClaren in Fowler, Colorado. He grew up and graduated from high school in Fowler. He attended the University of Denver where he met Margaret A. Traut from Rapid City, SD. They married on May 29, 1939, and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary prior to her death in September, 2009.

John McClaren worked for Rocky Mountain Water Company, Continental Airlines, Princess Cruises, Braniff Airlines, and ended his working days at Ebby Halliday Realty in the Dallas, Texas area.

Music was always an important part of John McClaren's life. He played the violin for his enjoyment, and in later years joined Townsmen chorus in Dallas, Texas. He liked to dance, and when he no longer could dance, he sang his favorite tunes.

John McClaren is survived by two daughters: Linda Donnelly (Tom) of Hallettsville, TX and Anne Dittman (Ted) of Gainesville, GA; five grandchildren: Lynette Hague (Doug), Julie Buggato (David), Jennifer Pearson (David), Tim Donnelly (Julie), Rebecca Donnelly (Mike Erb); seven great grandchildren: Collin and Galen Hague; Eva and Ella Bugatto; Maclaren, Christian, and Ryan Pearson.

John McClaren was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; an infant sister; and his sister, Frances McClaren LaBore(Don).

The service celebrating John McClaren's life will be held on Saturday, August 2, at 10:30AM in the chapel at Gainesville First United Methodist Church located at 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30506.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice or
Walnut Hill United Methodist Church
10066 Marsh Lane
Dallas, TX 75229
or
Halcyon Foundation
1435 Haw Creek Cr. East, Suite 402
Cumming, GA 30041
Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-6200 or for those who desire online condolences at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.