Duane "Mac" McClanahan

Born on Valentine’s Day in 1931 in Table Rock, Nebraska, Mac lived a life grounded in strong core principles, quiet strength, and unwavering love for those he held dear. He served proudly in the United States Air Force in the early 1950s before moving to Arizona in 1959 with his beloved wife, Audrey Jane, and their five children. Together they raised their family with rock-solid values and a “salt of the earth” approach to life. Mac enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with Shamrock Farms, where he worked until his retirement. His loyalty, integrity, and tireless work ethic were hallmarks of both his professional and personal life.

He is preceded in death by Audrey, his cherished wife of many years and beloved mother to their five children, and their daughter, Laurie Jane McClanahan. Mac is survived by his sons Mark McClanahan (Mary Kay), Randall McClanahan (Jackie), Russ McClanahan (Karen), and Michael McClanahan (Corrine); eight grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren — the youngest great-grandchild born just one week before his passing.

After losing Audrey at the young age of 52, Mac found joy again with his second life partner, Helen Pierson, who brought love and happiness to his later years. Together, Mac and Helen built a wonderful life, forming deep friendships and connecting with people from the most interesting backgrounds. With Helen, Mac also explored the world — traveling to many different countries and experiencing adventures that those who knew him might never have imagined…and he embraced every moment of it with gratitude and joy. To his family, Mac was more than a father and grandfather — he was a steady guide, a living example of honesty and devotion, and a man whose love was constant and unconditional. He took pride in being “Grandpa Mac” and nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His presence will be deeply missed, but the values he lived by — integrity, kindness, and the importance of family — will remain a guiding light for all who knew him. A private family memorial service will be held on October 10, 2025, followed by a celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to St. Mary’s Food Bank or Hospice of the Valley, specifically the Sherman House at Mayo Hospital, whose compassionate care served as a loving guide through the final chapter of Mac’s life.