Jerald I. McClanahan

Jerald I. McClanahan, 89, lifelong South Bend resident, passed unexpectedly on Thursday, March 9, 2017 in his home. He was born September 4, 1927 in South Bend to the late Clyde and Helen (Mills) McClanahan.

On November 21, 1945 in South Bend, Jerry married the former Leona Ruth Grise, who survives. They had 71 beautiful years together. In addition to his loving wife of 71 years, he is survived by their daughter, Juanita (Jim) McCollister of South Bend; sons, Tim Irving (Cindy) McClanahan of South Bend and Jerald Allen (Shirley) McClanahan of Punta Gorda, FL; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren (who say he was an awesome grandpa); one sister, Verda (Clyde) Kidd of Dowagiac, MI; two brothers, Thomas McClanahan of South Bend and Alfred (Vicki) McClanahan of Plymouth; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by another brother, James McClanahan.

Jerry served his country honorably in the United States Navy during World War II. He worked as a brick mason for the Local #4 Indiana and Kentucky Brick Layers Union. He was also employed at Universal Forest Products, Michiana Delivery and part-time with Claeys Candy. Jerry was a life member and past commander of VFW Post #1167 then transferred to VFW #8743, as well as a member of the American Legion Post #161. He was 3rd District Commmander, 3rd District Chaplain for several years. He was also involved with the German Twp Boy Scouts, where he was a Scout Master and received the Order of the Arrow. He helped start and build the German Twp Volunteer Fire Dept for 30+ years, and he was Fire Chief and President of the St. Joseph County Firefighters Association for several years. He had lots of friends, and he touched a lot of lives. He will be missed greatly.

There will be no public services. A Celebration of Life cookout will be held on his birthday, September 4. Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel and Southlawn Cremation Services are assisting the family with arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Jerry may be donated to VFW Post #8743, 718 N. Johnson Street, South Bend, IN 46628

Online condolences may be left for the McClanahan family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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