Donald "Don" T. McClow

Donald T. McClow, 80, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on November 9, 2024. Don was born on July 11, 1944, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to the late Don and Margaret (Benjamin) McClow. He graduated salutatorian from Hudsonville High School in 1962 and then earned a BA degree in English in 1966 from Hope College. He then attended the University of Kansas, where he worked on a Masters degree in Broadcast Journalism while teaching English and speech. 

In 1969, Don attended Officer Candidate School in the US Navy Reserves and accepted a commission and assignment in the Public Affairs Office at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida, where he served with distinction as a Lieutenant. His commanding officers noted repeatedly his integrity, work ethic, and personability, with one officer calling Don a “real top-notcher!” While serving in this capacity, Don used his voice as a radio DJ in Jacksonville (a position he held in Michigan and Kansas, as well). After moving to the Battle Creek area, Don served at the Federal Center in the public affairs office, where he retired. 

Don married the apple of his eye, Alice Sparks Berry, in 1996. Don was devoted to Alice, and the two of them looked for ways they could generously live out their faith in Christ. They enjoyed gardening and improving on their home together, where Alice engaged her passion for crafts and Don put his skills to work meticulously maintaining his lawn and gardens. He understood that his first priority and best friend was Jesus, so he looked for every opportunity to share his faith and encourage others to put their faith in Jesus. Don was a faithful churchman, serving his Lord and the people of Faith Baptist Church in several capacities, including on the Stewardship and Personnel Committees and as a Trustee. He was rock solid in his faith, firmly contending for the faith while not being contentious. He was loving, generous, kind, friendly, and joyful – a faithful Christian. 

Don was preceded in death by his loving wife Alice, his parents Don and Margaret McClow, sister Patricia Noble, and his step-son Randy Berry. He is survived by his brother-in-law Hal Noble, step-daughter Rhonda Rent, step-grandchildren Philip (Beth) Galata, Julie Galata, and Ian Rent, nieces Michelle Noble and Lisa Noble, and step-great grandchildren.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on December 7, 2024 at 12:00 pm at Faith Baptist Church, 13840 Helmer Rd. S., Battle Creek. Don will receive military honors and be interred at Ft. Custer National Cemetery on Monday, December 9, 2024 at 10:00 am. Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.