Gilbert M. McClain

SIOUX CITY -- Gilbert M. "Cowboy" McClain, 88, of Sioux City passed away Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, at Holy Spirit Retirement Homes.

Services will be 2 p.m. Monday at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel, with the Rev. Darin Corder officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, with the family present 6 to 8 p.m. and a prayer service at 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online to meyerbroschapels.com.

Gilbert "Cowboy" was born in Walthill, Neb., to Charles and Grace (Barber) McClain. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star medals and was involved in Exercise Tiger, while serving in the Army. After the war, he moved to Sioux City.

He married Helen Jensen on Feb. 9, 1950, in Elk Point, S.D. Helen passed away Oct. 4, 1993, in Sioux City. He worked for Armour and Company, retiring after 35 years.

He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard and the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 54. He enjoyed family outings, being outdoors, playing cards and watching westerns.

He is survived by his son, Dean McClain (Peggy) of Bennet, Neb.; two daughters, Barb McClain (Eugene) of Sioux City and Patty Fleming (Michael) of Sioux City; a brother, James McClain (Donna) of Walthill, Neb.; six grandchildren, Michelle McClain (James), Kellie Clay (Robby), Melanie Glasrud (Matt), April Van Osdel (Brent), Jason McClain and Spc. Dean McClain Jr.; and seven great-grandchildren, Cody, Collin, Joseph, Samuel, Caden, Ean and Bryn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; five sisters; and six brothers.

Pallbearers will be Robby Clay, David Hoar, Craig Doescher, Brent Van Osdel, Jack McClainand Spc Dean McClain, Jr. Honorary pallbearer will be Ed Sorensen.

A special thank you to the caring staff at Holy Spirit Retirement Home and Hospice.