Clayton McLaren Obituary

Clayton (Clayt) E. McLaren, 93, of Decker passed away peacefully on Monday, February 3, 2025 with his loving family at his side.
Clayton was born September 11, 1931 to the late Grant and Blanch (Perry) McLaren. He attended Marlette High School graduating with the class of of 1949. Clayt married Beverly Hayward on December 8, 1951 in Marlette and they were happily married for 67 years. Clayton worked at Phillip's Oil Company in Decker for over 40 years. He was an honorary member of the volunteer firefighters with the Lamotte Township Fire Department in Decker, the caretaker of the Moshier Cemetery for many years and a lifelong member of the Masons. Clayton was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Marlette. He was known for his whit, distinct laugh, independence and love for his family. Clayton was an avid outdoorsman at heart and loved time spent hunting and working outside. He and his wife, Bev found joy in the open road and enjoyed traveling together including Alaska and Missouri. Clayton also enjoyed camping at Pickerel Lake with family and searching for elk in the surrounding area. Sundays were spent watching his favorite sports teams, The Detroit Tigers and Lions.
Clayton is survived by his children, Diane (Bill) Ray, Debra (Mark) Twining, and Dale McLaren; grandchildren, Laura and Jill McCreedy, Kyle (Karly) Twining, Mark Jr. (Tammy) Twining, Brad (Hannah) Benhase and Kelly (Zach) McGlone; two great-grandchildren, Olivia and Jacob; brother, Kenneth McLaren; special friends, Margaret Sefton, Bill Hennessey, Donald King, John Jewett; and longtime neighbor, Floyd Cargill; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Clayton was preceded in death by his wife; parents; brother, Leonard McLaren; daughter, Denise Benhase; son-in-law, Dave Benhase; sister-in-law, Pat McLaren; and nephews, Ronald McLaren and Larry McLaren.
The family will receive visitors from 2-8 PM with a Mason Service and a Fireman walk through at 7 PM, on Sunday, February 9, 2025, and from 10-11 AM on Monday, February 10, 2025 at the Marsh Funeral Chapel in Marlette.
A funeral service will be at 11 AM on Monday, February 10, 2025 at Marsh Funeral Chapel in Marlette.
Burial will follow in Moshier Cemetery, Hemans.
The family would like to thank United Hospice for the wonderful care Clayton received.
Memorials may be made to United Hospice Service or First Presbyterian Church.
Friends may share an online condolence at www.marshfuneral.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marsh Funeral Chapel, 2675 Main St., Marlette, MI 48453. Phone 989-635-3658.