Ralph Clair McClellan

Ralph Clair McClellan, 94, of Bonita Springs, FL, formerly of Altoona passed away Monday, May 18th at American House in Bonita Springs, FL. Clair was born in Altoona, son of the late Robert K. and Margaret S. (Smith) McClellan. On June 21, 1950, he married Evelyn M. (Widney) in Tyrone. Clair is survived by his wife of 70 years, three sons: J. Scott and wife Sharon of Altoona, David C. and wife Jody of Virginia Beach, VA, John M. and wife Stephanie of Salisbury, MD; his brother, M. Gene McClellan and wife Hester of Hollidaysburg, as well as grandchildren Amanda McClellan of Virginia Beach, VA, Cody McClellan of Jacksonville, FL, and Mallory McClellan of St. Petersburg, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert H. Clair was a graduate of the Altoona School of Commerce with a degree in Business Administration. He was a member of The Mardorf United Methodist Church in Juniata Gap, where he was active in the choir and many other activities. Clair worked for A&P Grocery stores for 40 years in numerous positions including store management, marketing, and purchasing. He retired in 1988 from Value Drug Company as Vice President of Marketing and Promotions. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1943 – 1947 and finished his service as a lighthouse tender off Smith Island, MD. He often told stories of his Coast Guard days and thoroughly enjoyed returning to Smith Island as well as visiting his favorite vacation spot in Chincoteague, VA. Clair was a member of Logan Masonic Lodge and a 70+ year member of Jaffa Shrine. He was very active in the Jaffa Shrine Drum & Bugle Corps where he was a past Director. He continued to march in competitive parades into his 80’s. He was also the Past President of Mid-Atlantic Drum & Bugle Corps Association. He was also a member of the York Rite and the Royal Order of Jesters. Unfortunately, services will be private due to Covid-19 restrictions. Interment will take place at Grandview Cemetery, Altoona. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that anyone wishing to make a donation, do so in memory of Clair to Shriner’s Hospital for Children of Erie. Checks can be sent to 1645 West 8th Street; Erie, PA 16505 with a notation stating in memory of Clair McClellan. Arrangements are by Mauk & Yates Funeral Home, Inc.