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The Life of PATRICIA ALICE MCCLANAHAN

Patricia Alice (Winchell) McClanahan married to Loye E. McClanahan, died Saturday afternoon, July 16, 2011, at 12:30 p.m. Pat was born in Rippey, Iowa, and later moved to Des Moines. She worked at several different jobs throughout her life but her longest formal position was in the pharmacy of Broadlawns Medical Center. On October 2nd, Pat would have been 79 years old. She was born on October 2, 1933. Pat and Loye enjoyed 60 years of marriage. Loye passed away on May 2, 2010, which was one year, two months, and 16 days in separation. They truly cherished and loved each other and are now once again enjoying the presence of one another. Pat is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Emeline Winchell. She is survived by her sister Wanda, brother Dean, and two sons, Rodney and Gary McClanahan. Rodney is married to Pixie McClanahan and together they have five children, Melissa, Bryan, Eric, Andrea, and Jason. They also have 8 grandchildren. Gary McClanahan has three children, Ryan, Jennifer, and Jessica. Loye and Pat were blessed with eight great-grandchildren, Tyler Clover, Rebecca Clover, Sydney McClanahan, Jackson McClanahan, Michael Ludwick, Conner Ludwick, and Jonathan Ludwick. Pat is also survived by her dear friend (like a daughter to her), Connie Loftus. Pat was the type of woman who enjoyed laughter, teasing, friendship, and a good conversation with a cup of coffee. She was loved by all who knew her because of her beautiful smile and feisty personality. She always had time for anyone who wanted to talk and laugh. Her greatest enjoyment in life was family and children. She also enjoyed shopping, quilting, boating, and camping. She loved to cook and made amazing goulash, roast beef dinners, and the best potato salad you could ever eat. The door to her home was always open to her two son's friends. At times two gallons of milk would be consumed in one setting. She was the mom that all the kids wanted to have. She loved to hear her boys play their guitars and surrounded herself with family. Her nieces and nephews often thought of her as a mom or fun friend. She was her children's and grandchildren's biggest fan no matter what they were involved in. Loye always said that she was the most beautiful woman in the world. She called Loye her Bunny. If you didn't have the opportunity to meet this beautiful lady, it is her family's hope that you have known someone like her. She was blessed by God with her ability to show kindness, support, and love. You knew she cared without ever having to be told. You immediately loved her. This will take time for all of us as we miss and love her so much. We know she is in heaven now, free from pain; having tea parties, a cup of coffee, and spending time with her Bunny. When you think of Pat, Mom, or Grandma, remember that she is watching with caring eyes as you live your life while echoing the importance of family. We will love and miss you for a lifetime. Thanks for all that you have done for each of us. Services will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines with visitation on Wednesday, July 20 from 5 to 8 p.m. and the funeral on Thursday, July 21 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be on Friday, July 22 at Highland Memory Gardens at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to Highland Park Christian Church.

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2011.07.22
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