Earl Oren McKinley

Earl O. McKinley, 90, of North Manchester, Indiana, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025. Born on November 2, 1934, in Flora, Indiana, he was the beloved youngest of nine children born to David T. and Lenna M. (High) McKinley.

Known affectionately to many as Dr. Mac, he was a well-respected and well-loved dentist who faithfully served the North Manchester community for many years. Mac began his career of service in the United States Air Force, where he trained and served as a dental lab technician. Following his military service, he attended Manchester College and went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) from Indiana University School of Dentistry.

Mac was a longtime member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, where he was actively involved in the congregation and participated in Lutheran Men in Mission. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he made it a priority to share that faith with his children and grandchildren. Mac had a bold personality—never one to shy away from conversation or a good laugh—and his values, energy, and love for life were a true reflection of his beliefs.

After retiring from dentistry, Mac brought his vibrant storytelling and playful magic tricks to Lutheran Hospital, where he volunteered with children battling cancer—a role he later described as the most rewarding of his life. His warmth, humor, and compassion left a lasting impression on all who met him.

Mac was an avid fisherman and hunter, a talented artist who enjoyed woodworking and stained glass, and a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of nature and craft. He was a proud and dedicated member of American Legion Post 286 for over 50 years, where he continued to serve his community and fellow veterans.

He and his beloved wife Janet treasured their time spent at St. George Island, Florida, where they enjoyed many years of fishing, relaxing on the beach, and making memories with family and close friends.

Mac is survived by his cherished wife, Janet (Kreider) McKinley; children Elizabeth (Ebe Cotton) McKinley, Laura (Andy) Roth, Mark (Christine) King, and Beth (Jason) Keim; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings.

Mac McKinley lived a life of purpose, service, creativity, faith, and deep love for his family and community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Zion Lutheran Church, 113 W Main Street, North Manchester, IN. Military honors will be rendered at 2:15 PM, immediately following the service. A reception will follow from 2:30 to 4:00 PM at The Firehouse, 108 W Main Street, North Manchester, IN. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Indiana Parkinson Foundation in Mac’s memory at https://www.indianaparkinson.org/donate-to-ipf/