Donald "Don" Gene McClary

Donald “Don” Gene McClary, age 89, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin, with his wife, Marcine by his side. Don was born on September 26, 1935, in Spring Valley, Minnesota, to Glen and Irene (Guy) McClary. His parents moved to Austin when Don was seven years old. He attended schools in Austin. Don was united in marriage to Marcine Lukes on September 11, 1952, at the Church of Christ in Austin. Born to this union were five daughters, Georgia, Jackie, Dawn, Patty, and Jill. The couple also raised their grandson, Jason.

Don was a tool and dye maker and worked at various factories. He was known for his love of the outdoors, frequently enjoying fishing and hunting, always accompanied by a loyal dog at his side. 

In 1972, he purchased a cabin up north and made many memories with his children and grandchildren. Don shot clay pigeons and was good at it; he won many trophies that he was proud of. He was a member of the Cedar Valley Conservation Club for many years and ended up being the oldest shooter still participating. He was also a member of Grace Baptist Church and held a strong belief in the Lord throughout his life.

Survivors include his wife, Marcine McClary of Austin, MN; children, Jackie (Ray) Custer of Austin, MN, Dawn Buxton of Brownsdale, MN, Patty (Jim) Shafer of Austin, MN, and Jill (Dan) Van Hooser of Austin, MN; 10 grandchildren, Jason (Kelli) McClary of Eagan, MN, Derick Scott of White Bear Lake, MN, Daniel Buxton of Rochester, MN, Michelle (Chris) George of Austin, MN, Amanda Buxton of Austin, MN, Joe Ulland of Austin, MN, Jordan Scott of Austin, MN, Luke Van Hooser of Owatonna, MN, Tom (Amy) Schafer of Austin, MN, and Andy (Robin) Schafer of Albert Lea, MN; 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Mick (Pam) McClary of Emmons, MN; sister, Gwen Nack of Austin, MN; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Suzie and Bill Hogendorf of Austin, MN; and nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Irene McClary; daughter, Georgia McClary; son-in-law, Byron Buxton; parents-in-law, Mike and Loretta Prantner; and brother-in-law, Dave Nack.

A memorial service for Don will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.