Robert “Bob” Kenneth McClain, 81, of Russell, PA, passed unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Warren General Hospital.

He was born on December 12, 1944, in Sheffield, PA, to the late Ray and Adda (Fox) McClain. He grew up working and playing on his family's farm in Barnes.

Bob graduated from Sheffield High School in 1962 and attended further education in Chicago, IL. Bob then served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War as an airplane mechanic stationed in the Philippines. He worked for United Refining Company for many years, retiring as the machine shop superintendent. He was a member of the American Legion (Post # 658) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He married his soulmate Gretchen (Elsholz) McClain on Valentine’s Day, 1997. They loved each other very much and would seldom be seen apart. They enjoyed many trips together, one of his favorites being their trip to Alaska.

Bob loved God, his family and serving his country. He loved being around his family and friends, especially picking on them showing that love in his special way. He was deeply proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He spent many hours lending a hand and taking care of the people around him. He was a huge part of his family and community, leaving behind a gaping hole in many people’s lives.

He had many skills, one of his best being a hobby woodworker creating lighthouses, windmills, wishing wells, toys and so much more; making many beautiful things for his family and friends. Quite a few of those creations earned best of show and 1st place ribbons at the Warren County Fair.

He enjoyed life to the fullest, especially fishing, telling fish stories, doing puzzles, camping, cooking outdoors by grilling, fish frying and even using his Dutch oven to make pineapple upside down cake at the Fair. Bob was a proud part the “Garbage Crew” at the Fair, where he camped and spent hours volunteering over the years. He especially loved family reunions and gatherings, keeping tradition alive.

He served his Lord Jesus Christ as an active member of the Lander Community Church. He lived his life as Christ would have wanted, serving and loving those around him. Proven by the life he lived and his Bible and discipleship journal being open on the dining room table, the day the Lord called him home.

Take heart! Bob is in heaven with Jesus and they are probably fishing right now, while hotdogs cook on the grill. And he might be trying to convince Him that spice cake with peanut butter frosting is His favorite…

Bob is survived by his wife, Gretchen McClain; his children, Todd (Becki) McClain, Bobbi Jo (Adam Reitano) McClain; Stepsons, Steve Nelson and Dan (Jennifer) Nelson; his grandchildren, Tyler (Kelsi) McClain, Braden McClain, Breanna McClain, Elliot Reitano; step grandchildren Aubrey Nelson, Eli Nelson, and Daniel Nelson; great-grandchildren, Harlyn, Rowen, Elowen, and Dawson McClain; step great grandchild, Brooks Nelson Smith; and his sister, Mary Ellen (David) Straight.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his siblings, Laura (Robert) Bunting, Betty (John) Cook, Dorothy (Ray) Zimmerman, Larry (Carol) McClain, and Patricia (Bill) Brunner.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Peterson-Blick Funeral Home, Inc. A memorial service and dinner for Bob will take place at Lander Community Church, 5582 PA-957, Russell, PA, 16345, on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Visitation starts at 2:00 pm. and memorial service at 3:00 pm. with Rev. Dale McMillen officiating. Full military honors will be presented by the Youngsville American Legion Post 658.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory can be made to either Lander Community Church or the Warren County Fair.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.petersonblickfuneralhome.com or on the funeral home Facebook page.