Obituary of William McLain

William “Pa-Pa” McLain, 80, died December 10, 2009 at his home from end stage Alzheimer's. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eunice and Joseph McLain; Daughter, Sandra Lynn; Brothers; Harold V. and Daniel L. McLain and his Granddaughter, Kali Anne Erwin. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth J. McLain; son, William (Pat) McLain; daughters, Janet (Rick) Erwin and Joyce (Scott) Sheffield; son Keith (Kathy) McLain; brothers, Charles and Harry McLain, along with 11 grandchildren and 3 great- grandchildren. Bill was born on August 15, 1929, in Danville, Illinois, and moved to Chicago where he met and married his wife, Betty. He served his country proud through his service in the United States Coast Guard, during which he and Betty made the move to Hialeah, Florida, where they remained and raised their family. After leaving the Coast guard he remained in government service which included overseeing President Nixon's home in Key Biscayne. During this time he served in many public service roles including: a youth sports coach, president of the optimist club, as well as an active member of the Baptist Church. Bill was an avid softball player himself. He coached both his sons through their baseball and football careers, as well as many other baseball players who went on to professional careers. Furthermore, he developed and raised funds for many sports scholarship programs. After moving his family to Belleview, in 1977, he remained active in public service roles, such as, President of the Lake Weir High booster club and Belleview Youth Sports, where he helped with re- construction of the Belleview Ball Park. He helped resurrect a basketball program at Lake Weir High and never denied a child a chance to participate. After 30 years of government service, Bill retired at age 55 as manager of the Ocala Federal Building, this was the opening of a new chapter of his existence. His love for Thoroughbred racing, he brought with him from Hialeah Park and decided to put his hat into the industry. He became a stakes winning horse trainer and made his mark at racetracks all over the country. He was an active member of the Florida Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. He was known at all race tracks as the trainer that would always lend a hand or a dollar to anyone in need and would always be willing to share the love of his God. After hanging up his bridal, he devoted his time to the care of his beloved granddaughter, Kali, and his family. He unselfishly dedicated time and labor to kids in need at Hillcrest school. He was known by everyone there as 'Kaliâ€'s Pa-Pa.'