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McClure, Don 'Phil'
Don “Phil” McClure, 71, of Estes Park, Colo., formerly of Washington, passed away Sept. 1, 2010.
Phil was born Dec. 29, 1938, in Washington, Iowa, the son of Don Merle and Helen L. “Sally” (Mangold) McClure. Phil graduated in 1956 from Washington High School, where he excelled in both academics and athletics. In addition to being an honor student, he was an All Conference performer in football, track and basketball and an All State selection in basketball. He accepted a basketball scholarship to Iowa State University at Ames, Iowa, and later transferred to the University of Northern Iowa, where he attained his bachelor's degree.
Phil later earned his master's degree in counseling psychology and a juris doctorate from the University of Iowa. He practiced law in Des Moines, Iowa, and spent the last 27 years as an administrative law judge for the state of Colorado. Phil, on several occasions, had his decisions upheld in the Colorado Supreme Court and several important cases set precedent for other hearing officers in the state.
Phil was an avid reader, a passionate sports fan and took delight in the beauty and wildlife of the mountains.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia “Cindy” of Estes Park, Colo.; daughter, Michelle McClure of McLean, Va.; son, Mark Reed of Des Moines; daughter, Beth (Christopher) Champ of Broomfield, Colo.; son, Randall (Rebecca) Reed of Broomfield, Colo.; seven sisters, Sylvia (Tom) Smith of Burlington, Patricia (Jim) Anderson of Decorah, Carol (Rich) Gaard of Decorah, Donna (Dan) Hansen of Hales Corners, Wis., Pam (John) McDermott of Englewood, Colo., Jo Lynn McClure of Coralville and Sara (Steve) Sproule of North Liberty; two brothers, Bob (Addie) McClure of Center Point and Mike McClure of Washington; and nine grandchildren. Phil loved his family and was extremely proud of their accomplishments.
In lieu of a memorial service, Phil requested a celebration of life party, which was held Aug. 21 at his home in Estes Park.
Phil and the family are forever grateful to the caretakers at Estes Valley Hospice and his many friends, neighbors and professional associates.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Pet Association of Estes Park or a charity of one's choice.
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