Gary Milo McClughen

Gary Milo McClughen of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away from this life in Norman on June 30, 2023, at the age of 75. Gary was born in Coldwater, Michigan, on January 20, 1948, the son of Jack Milo McClughen and Mary Alice Showalter. As a young man, he joined the United States Air Force, serving as a Sergeant during the Vietnam conflict.

Gary was a very engaged and centered individual. Anytime he got interested in something, he became very involved, giving every commitment 100% of his focus. Most of his career was spent on the road as a truck driver and automobile carrier. He became devoted to taking his beloved dog, Charlie, on his daily drive. He and Charlie were totally inseparable - Gary loved spending all his time with his pup.

He loved sports and was an avid golfer, and throughout his 30s and 40s, played softball. He also loved keeping up with the San Francisco 49ers during football season. Gary loved to ride his motorcycle as well, and he was a member of a close-knit Christian motorcycle club until an accident persuaded him to stop riding. More than anything, Gary loved his family, and especially enjoyed giving special nicknames to his grandchildren. He was a very good man who will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Showalter, father Jack McClughen, and his wife, Karen McClughen.

Left to cherish his memory are two daughters, Shasta Erts and son-in-law Jeffrey, and Shawnnna Gleason and son-in-law John; one brother, Casey McClughen and his wife Sandy; eight grandchildren, Taylor Erts, Reghan Ashworth, Colin Erts, Jakob Spencer, Aidan Erts, Liam Erts, Greyce Gleason, and Lucas Gleason, and three great-grandchildren, Niall Erts, Matthew Erts, and Charles Ashworth.

A graveside service for Gary will be held Monday, July 10, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ManasotaMemorial.com for the McClughen family.