Gary McClain

McClain, Gary William

POYNETTE - Gary William McClain, age 54, passed away on Aug. 7, 2021.

Born on June 8, 1967, Gary was the son of Mary Lou McClain Badding (Daniels) and William H. McClain Jr. While it was far too short, Gary lived a large, colorful life, leaving a distinctive mark that will never fade.

Born in Lafayette, Ind., Gary began his journey defying the odds, which later became his template for life. He was born prematurely, the "surprise" second twin, along with his sister, Mary; neither were expected to survive. He pulled through and thrived, playing by his own rules from that point forward.

Gary was a natural born salesman with an uncanny eye for design. His mom would often boast that he could "sell you the Brooklyn Bridge." He could fix anything, large or small, and had a relentless work ethic and an unusual attention to detail.

His loyalty to his family and friends was unmatched. Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lou McClain Badding; beloved father-in-law, Bill Femrite; brother-in-law, Tommy; nephew, Jacob; and his grandfather, William H. McClain Sr. of Deerfield Beach, Fla.

His spirit lives on through Debbie "Sissy" (Femrite), his devoted wife and partner for over 40 years; three children, Sara (Andy), Kyle, and Joe; and his grandson, Lucas William Schellenberger, his greatest joy. He is also survived by his father, William H. McClain Jr.; two sisters, Susan McClain (Jacob Sobell) and Patty McClain Sigler; nephews, Jack and Nick Sigler; half-sister, Carin McClain; and stepfather, Harry Badding. He had a very deep connection with his mother-in-law, Donna Femrite, and will be missed by the entire Femrite family, including his brother-in-law, Todd (Latanya); nephews, Tyler and JT; and goddaughter, Alysha. Finally, Gary cherished his brotherhood, a tight-knit clan from childhood, along with Clair "Old Man" Oren, a very special father figure.

Gary had a passion for fishing, hunting, and above all else, Chevy trucks, a diehard enthusiasm that is now shared by the whole family. He also loved the ocean, namely Deerfield Beach, Fla., where he will rest.

Gary truly had nine lives, surviving several accidents, surgeries, and health issues, including sleep apnea, that ultimately led to heart and breathing complications.

We are so grateful for the way Gary filled our life with laughter, surprise, and above all, exhilarating love.

We invite you to Gary's celebration of life held at THE EAST SIDE CLUB, 3735 Monona Drive, Madison, on Friday, Aug. 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please wear or bring something yellow (any small token), Gary's absolute favorite color.

All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services

Madison (608) 442-0477 www.866allfaiths.com