Richard Darrell Mcclain

Richard Darrell McClain,a resident of Apple Valley, California, for almost thirty years, passed away on September 11, 2014.

Richard was born on December 30th in Youngstown, Ohio, to Darrell and Louise McClain. The family was joined two years later by his sister, Sandra.

Richard grew up in Pasadena, California. He graduated from Pasadena College where he earned both his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Business and Education. He enjoyed a long and happy career in education during which he served as teacher, vice principal, principal, and counselor in elementary schools ranging from Lancaster, California; Germany, Japan (Department of Defense Overseas Schools); Arlington, Virginia; Salem, Oregon; and finally Adelanto, California from where he retired after over 41 years of service. He was always involved in the teacher associations wherever he worked, serving as an officer and on many committees. He was also a delegate to the National Education Association conventions.

Richard met and married his wife, Dale, in Arlington, Virginia, near Washington, D.C. They were blessed with two daughters, Melissa and Megan.

Richard loved to travel and was fortunate to be able to tour many different countries throughout the world. In retirement, he enjoyed attending retired teachers events, playing Bingo at the Apple Valley Senior Citizens' club and Sun City, taking short jaunts to Las Vegas and the various casinos in the area, and attending family get togethers. Most of all, he loved watching sports throughout his life, and couldn't get enough of the Lakers and his beloved Dodgers.

Richard is survived by his wife and daughters, his sister and brother-in-law, Sandy and Lee Beaty, his nieces Lynn Ripperdan, Shaunie Davies, and their husbands and families.

He was predeceased by his parents and his nephew, Lance Beaty.

Richard never met a stranger. He was a loving husband, father, brother, and uncle. His family will cherish the wonderful memories.

Family services will be held at a later date.