Clyde L Milligan

Clyde Milligan, a beloved husband, friend, neighbor, and proud American patriot, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, at the age of 100.

Born on September 18, 1925, in Indianapolis, Clyde was one of eight children. He attended Ben Davis High School before answering the call to serve his country after the attack at Pearl Harbor at the remarkable age of 16. Clyde joined the United States Army and became a member of the historic 111th Infantry Regiment, a unit whose proud lineage dates back to the American Revolution and service under George Washington.

After completing basic training in Georgia, Clyde spent two years serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II. His unit alternated between assignments in Hawaii, where they guarded the palace, and deployments to combat zones in what are now known as the Marshall Islands, including Kwajalein, Peleliu, and Engebi. Clyde served as a Staff Sergeant and Squad Leader, responsible for the leadership and safety of 12 men under his command. He also worked as a dog trainer, caring for and training dogs used for beach patrol operations.

For his courage, leadership, and dedicated service, Clyde was awarded two Bronze Stars, the American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Ribbon, Infantry Combat Medal, and Victory Medal.

After returning home from the war, Clyde married the love of his life, Opal Marie Hagaman. The two shared 48 wonderful years of marriage until Marie's passing. Though they were not blessed with children, they shared their home and hearts with a beloved beaglehound named Cookie and remained close with many relatives and friends.

Clyde built a successful career with Radio Wire Manufacturing Company, where he first worked as an employee and later became an owner. The company produced insulated copper wire used in electronics, including televisions, during a period of tremendous growth in American manufacturing.

In 2006, Clyde moved to Zionsville, where he lived in the Village. There he developed strong friendships with his neighbors and became a beloved and familiar presence in the neighborhood, often sharing stories, conversation, and encouragement. For many years he was also a special guest of neighborhood children at Eagle Elementary School during their Veterans Day celebrations, where students honored his service.

He was a devoted member of New Hope Church for more than 40 years, where his faith and fellowship were central parts of his life.

Clyde remained committed to personal growth and education throughout his life, including, late in life, earning his GED through a program designed for veterans who had joined the service before completing high school. In 2014, he proudly participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., a meaningful tribute to his service and sacrifice.

On his 100th birthday, Clyde was honored by his community and the State of Indiana for his lifetime of service. The mayor of Zionsville proclaimed the day "Clyde Milligan Day." He was named an Honorary Police Chief in Zionsville, recognized by a State Representative, and appointed a Distinguished Hoosier by Governor Mike Braun, one of the state's highest honors. He was also recognized by U.S. Senator from Indiana Todd Young on the Senate Floor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5IcJjS899I

Clyde had many interests and simple joys that enriched his life. He especially loved attending church, woodworking, cooking, fishing, gardening, and playing golf. He was also a long-standing member of the Masonic fraternity (50+ years of membership most recently at the Charles F. Frank Lodge No. 760), valuing the fellowship and principles it represented. Clyde had a deep appreciation for big band and Dixieland music, which often filled his home with warmth and nostalgia.

Those who knew Clyde will remember his quiet strength, his positivity, his love of country, his devotion to family and friends, and the steady kindness he showed to those around him. His life spanned a century of American history, and he lived it with humility, faith, and gratitude.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and friends will gather for visitation on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 11am until the time of his funeral service at 1pm at New Hope Christian Church, 5780 S. Main St. Whitestown, IN 46075. He will be laid to rest at Lincoln Memory Gardens Cemetery in Whitestown immediately following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Clyde's memory to New Hope Christian Church.