Obituary of Danny R. McLain

     Danny R. McLain, 58, of Holland Patent, NY, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, NY after a long illness.

     Danny was born on May 2, 1966, the son of Joseph and Catherine (Kay) McLain of Salisbury Center, New York. Danny was pre-deceased by his brother, Joseph and sister-in-law, Angie McLain.  Danny received his secondary education while living in Aiken, South Carolina and post-secondary training through Cornell University's Institute on Employment & Disability and its School of Industrial and Labor Relations. Danny was employed as an advocate at The Resource Center for Independent Living in Utica, New York.  Danny achieved a 35-year tenure with that organization and was sought out by community leaders, legislators, and private industry for his expertise under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Danny will be remembered as an extremely intelligent and pragmatic gentleman whose caring and nurturing nature touched many lives. Danny was a friend to animals and provided shelter and comfort to many in need over the course of his life. He possessed old world knowledge handed down to him by his father and applied soil practices he learned to grow quite enviable vegetables and flowers.

    He is survived by his former life companion Donna Gillette, beloved stepson Justin Gillette, and stepdaughter Kylen Gillette. Danny wanted to acknowledge his gratitude for friendships with Gene Hughes, Gail Bartnik and Cassandra Mendez.

     In keeping with Danny’s wishes, there will be no public visitation and final arrangements are made at the family’s convenience.

     In honor of Danny’s unwavering dedication to those in need, consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or at www.stjude.org in his memory.

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