Andrew D. McClay age 97 of Delano, passed away peacefully on September 30th, at the Legacy of Delano. We want to thank the Legacy staff for all their love and support these last seven years, and to Brighton Hospice who supported and guided us all through Andy’s last weeks. We could not have asked for better care, you are all angels.

Andy was born December 30th, 1918 in Smith Lake, MN to parents Kathryn and William “Harry” McClay. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Luella (Sunday) McClay; brothers Robert, Arnold and Aubrey McClay and sister Garnet Downing.

Survived by son’s Gary (Lynn) McClay and Jeff (Nita) McClay. Grandchildren, Wendy (Rob) Bidwell, John (Lori) McClay, Chad (Teresa) McClay, Heather (John) Kadlec. Step grandchildren,Tony Lombardo and Lisa Prawdzik. Great grandchildren, Zach and Jacob Bidwell, Wyatt and Chase McClay, Issac and Niccole McClay, Evan and Mason Kadlec. Step great grandchildren, Anna and April Prawdzik, Nick and Amanda Lombardo. Step great, great grandchild, Riley Lombardo.

Andy grew up and graduated in Montrose, MN. He married Luella Sunday on June 6, 1945. After living in Minneapolis for several years they moved back to Delano where they made their home. Andy was an avid sportsman who enjoyed, fishing, hunting, basketball, baseball, football, boxing and Nascar. He especially loved winter ice fishing with his buddies! He was a member of the Delano Athletic Club and the Delano Sportsman’s Club where he was a past treasurer for 20 years. He was well known at the Delano ball park as he ran the popcorn stand during all the town team baseball games. Andy and Lou also loved the Delano 4th of July Celebration. He would get up at 5:00 am to put out their chairs on the parade route so no one would get their spot. Andy and Lou spent endless hours working at the food and bingo stands during the 4th of July. Andy ws honored as Mr. Delano on July 4, 1982.

Andy enjoyed gardening and working on his lawn. All the neighbors always mentioned there was never a blade of grass out of place.

Andy worked as a laundry driver for Gros. Bros Kronicks for 40 years. The next ten years after retirement he enjoyed driving school bus, especially for the after school sports activities. The students loved him as their driver and biggest supporter!

Andy was loved and will be missed by his family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Delano. Visitation was in the church from 10 a.m. to time of service. Interment was in the church cemetery.