Hugh Clair Gillin Jr.

July 14, 1925-May 4, 2004 Clair was born July 14, 1925, in Galesburg, IL, the son of Marguerite Clarke Gillin and Hugh Clair Gillin. The family moved to Pittsburg, KS, in 1939, where Clair completed his education graduating from Pittsburg High School in 1943. He was a standout player on the Pittsburg High School Purple Dragon basketball team. Upon graduation, Clair entered the Army and served as Squad Leader in the 100th Infantry Division. Wounded in combat, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and the Combat Infantry Badge. After the war, Clair entered the University of Kansas, where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. He was also a member of the KU basketball team and played under Coach Phog Allen. In 1950, he graduated with a degree in Petroleum Geology. Clair married Mary (Mimi) Nettels on June 17, 1947. They had four children who survive him: Mark Andrew Gillin and wife, Vicki, McAllen, TX; Timothy Clair Gillin and wife, Lori, Prairie Village, KS; Marcia Anne Gillin Cook, Louisburg, KS; and John (Jed) Edward Gillin, Los Angeles, CA. In 1973, Clair moved to Los Angeles, CA, to pursue an acting career. His success in the acting industry led to numerous roles in movies, television and on stage. He was a member of the Screen Actors Guild, serving on the Board of Directors for two terms. Clair was involved with Alcoholics Anonymous and celebrated 41 years of sobriety. He is survived by his wife, Jan M. Gillin of the home; his four children, and four grandchildren: Benjamin and Sarah Gillin of McAllen, TX, Mathilde (Molly) Cook Newell of Kansas City, Trent Michael Coffin, Prairie Village, and one great-grandson, Gillin Patrick Wesley Newell. The family suggests contributions be made in Clair's name to the charity of your choice. Private graveside service in Pittsburg, KS.