Open visitation without family present: Monday, February 3, 2025, 12:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M., Peterson Mortuary, 212 S. Locust Street, Glenwood, Iowa.
Services: Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M., Peterson Mortuary, 212 S. Locust Street, Glenwood, Iowa.
Patricia Kathleen McLain, lovingly known as Pat, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, at the age of 91.
Born on February 27, 1933, on a farm in Carbon, Iowa, Pat was the daughter of Joseph Dennis and Leona Vivian (Stennett) Kelly. She graduated from Corning High School in 1952 and began her career as a nurse’s aide at Corning Hospital before later working at the Eveready Battery Plant in Red Oak. One of her fondest memories from this time was the excitement of owning a car her father had purchased for her.
On July 16, 1955, Pat married the love of her life, Leo Dwight McLain, in Red Oak, Iowa. Their marriage spanned an incredible 69 years, filled with love, laughter, and family. Together, they raised three children: David (born 1956), Julie (1958), and Matthew (1963). Throughout the years, the family moved several times across southwest Iowa as Leo’s work with the Burlington Railroad relocated them to Red Oak, Hastings, Chariton, Corning, and eventually Glenwood, where they settled for 59 years.
Pat devoted herself to her family as a homemaker while her children were young. Once they were in school, she worked at Glen Haven Nursing Home and later for Glenwood Community Schools. Both she and Leo retired in 1993, embarking on a new chapter of adventure and travel.
For over a decade, Pat and Leo explored the United States and Canada, cherishing each journey together. A highlight of their travels was a special trip to Ireland, a tribute to Pat’s deep pride in her Irish heritage. They also made frequent visits to Branson, Missouri, where they enjoyed live country music performances. Music was always a cherished part of Pat’s life—she loved country tunes, polka, and playing the piano by ear, a talent she shared with her mother. In their later years, Pat and Leo found joy in simple moments, listening to KMA radio while sharing tea, coffee, and cookies.
Pat’s green thumb was evident in her love for growing flowers and caring for the family’s pets over the years. More than anything, she cherished time spent with family, especially with children, as she had a special way of connecting with them, regardless of age.
Pat and Leo were members of Grace United Methodist Church in Glenwood. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Wayne Kelly, Murial Phillips, Donald Kelly, and Roland Kelly. She is survived by her devoted husband, Leo McLain, now residing at the Masonic Home in Plattsmouth, Nebraska; her children: David (Eufrosina) McLain of Manlius, New York, Julie (Bruce) Van Meeteren of Glenwood, Iowa, and Matthew (Sandra) McLain of Bellevue, Nebraska; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nieces Verna Herzog of Bethany, Missouri, and Jo (Russ) York of Spokane Valley, Washington; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.
Pat’s kindness, warmth, and love for her family will never be forgotten.
Interment, Glenwood Cemetery, Glenwood, Iowa.
Memorial donations have been designated to Grace United Methodist Church.
5 Condolences
Aunt Pat was such a gentle soul and I loved her so much. Her and Uncle Leo were a perfect match so caring and gentle. She will be missed by all who loved her…..
Deepest condolences to the McLain family.
My sincere condolences from my family to all of yours.
Sorry for your loss Matt. Prayers.
My condolences for your loss.
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