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Crippin Funeral Home - Montrose

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Carl McClung Obituary

Carl Lee McClung, age 86, of Ridgeway, Colorado, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, in Montrose.
Carl was born on January 31, 1939, in Lawrence, Kansas to Wilma (Harrison) and Carl C. McClung. He graduated from Lawrence High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kansas. He later achieved his Master's in Mechanical Engineering from Bradley University, paving the way for a successful career spanning 35 years at Caterpillar Tractor Co.
Carl shared 66 years of love and partnership with his wife, Beverly (Ellenbarger) McClung. Together, they retired in their dream home in Colorado and enjoyed the beauty of the outdoors-a passion that Carl carried throughout his life.
Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly, and their children: Brian C. McClung (LeeAnn) of Las Vegas, NV; Quentin D. McClung (Shelly) of St. Louis, MO; and Tracy A. McClung of Longmont, CO. He was a proud grandfather to Trevor McClung of Dallas, TX; Heath McClung (Ali) of St. Louis, MO; Matthew McClung (Elena) of Austin, TX; and Tyler McClung (Lauren) of Olathe, KS. His joy only grew with his great-grandchildren: Wyatt and Shea McClung of St. Louis; Malachi, Sophia, and Rick of Austin, TX and Millie Ann McClung of Olathe, KS; and, Carl is also survived by his sister, Peggy A. McClung.
Known affectionately as "Carl", "Dad," "Grandpa Carl," "Great Grandpa Carl," and "Bud" he will be remembered as a kind, strong soul who always gave selflessly of his time and talents. Family came first for Carl, yet he always found time to volunteer and help others. Despite his giving heart, Carl often downplayed his generosity by signing cards as "The Grump" and jokingly responding "mean as ever" when asked how he was doing.
Carl's legacy is one of love, humility, and quiet strength. Though gone from sight, he will never be gone from our hearts. His family finds comfort in the promise of reunion someday.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society.
Celebration of Carl's Life
Date: 09/27/2025
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Carey Residence, 22726 V66 Trail, Montrose, CO

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Montrose Daily Press from Sep. 19 to Sep. 24, 2025.

Memorial Events
for Carl McClung

Sep

27

Celebration of Life

11:00 a.m.

22726 V66 Trail

22726 V66 Trail, Montrose, CO 81403

Funeral services provided by:

Crippin Funeral Home - Montrose

802 Main Street, Montrose, CO 81401

Memories and Condolences
for Carl McClung

Sponsored by Crippin Funeral Home - Montrose.

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5 Entries

David and Deb Frohberg

September 26, 2025

As a new engineer starting at Cat in 1988, Carl had a very strong influence on me at both Caterpillar and with my family. He led by example, demonstrating excellence but doing it with integrity and respect. He helped to make me a better person at work and at home. I will never forget the impact he had in my life. My thoughts and prayers for Bev and the family. David Frohberg

Elizabeth Millroy

September 26, 2025

My thoughts are with you all x Carl and Bev although so far away...have always been family to me. Beautiful family (especially you Tracy my friend always), thinking of you. Love always Liz x

Don Charleston

September 24, 2025

Rest in peace Carl. Enjoyed working in your division. 3300 in 1978 and 3206 about 1980. I still remember how cold building VV was in winter and when you grabbed a roll of Mylar drawing plastic and "insulated" the walls for us to stop the wind. The following year they got the hint and insulated the building. Then there was the day you leaned back in your office chair and fell backwards. Fortunately you weren´t hurt. When you got up we heard "Damn thing threw me." We had a good laugh. Condolences to your entire family.

George Lustgarten

September 22, 2025

Rest in peace, Carl. It was a privilege to work with you!
George Lustgarten, previous Engineering Director, Caterpillar

Stuart Holder

September 19, 2025

My sincere condolences to Bev and family. I worked for and with Carl at Caterpillar in the `80s. He was one of the best managers you could ask to work for. He had the mechanical engineering skills to deeply understand the challenges work projects presented. He would trust you to make the right decisions. His office door was always open. It was a privilege to have known him.

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