David Paige McClellan

David Paige McClellan departed this world to be with his Lord and Savior on March 25, 2024. He was born on December 27, 1947 in Topeka, Kansas to Helen and Lester John (Dutch) McClellan. He attended Topeka schools and graduated from Topeka West High School in 1965. From there he attended the University of Kansas and remained an avid Jayhawk his entire life.

Introduced by their mothers, David met his future wife Tonya Ilene Palubinski in 1969. They were married on December 26,1970 while on leave from the United States Navy. Immediately following their nuptials, Tonya joined David where he was posted in Virginia Beach, VA until his honorable discharge in 1975.

After his navy service, David and Tonya moved back to their hometown to start a family and David began working for Commerce Back. In the early 80’s, he changed careers, moving into the burgeoning computer industry, selling point of sale systems for Sweda Systems. Thus began his 4+ decade in sales, retiring from Epson in 2015.

In 2003, Dave and Tonya began spending more time in the California Desert, where his brother, Jack, had lived for decades. As empty nesters in Palm Desert, the couple found an optimal work/life balance. They found golfing and socializing with friends at their golf club so gratifying that they decided to make a permanent move to the desert in 2007.

David is survived by wife of 54 years, Tonya McClellan (nee Palubinski), and his two children - Paige McClellan and Brett McClellan (Ashley). His 3 grandchildren- Oliver (14), Brooks (14), and Spencer (11); his nieces, Ketti Dawson (Leon), Faith Novak, and Dede (Ron Olson); his nephews, Jeremy Palubinski, Paul (Lynn) McClellan, and Jay McClellan; and many great nieces and nephews. Proceeding him in death were his parents, Lester John (Dutch) McClellan and Helen Irene McClellan (nee Paige); and his  brother, Jack McClellan (Mollie), brother and sister in law John Palubinski (Jane). His children take comfort in knowing he is a man of faith, and is at peace in his final resting place.

David was a consummate storyteller and delighted in puzzling people with his dry sense of humor. He loved watching the Kansas Jayhawks, a great round of golf, breakfast with his golfing buddies, western movies, Kansas City BBQ, but most of all his family.  

Services for David will be held on 4/27 @ 10am at Cure of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, KS.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the First Tee of Greater Kansas City, https://firstteekc.org/donate/, in David's honor to help youth enjoy the game of golf.