Michael Thomas McClish

Michael McClish, age 76, of West Des Moines, passed away on May 18th, 2025 at EveryStep Hospice-Kavanagh House in Des Moines, Iowa.

Mike was everything to so many people. He was June’s one and only true love for over 60 years, he was a devoted dad who never missed an event, a grandpa that always showed up. He was a football coach who loved his players. He was a mentor to so many young men through J-Hawk football.

Mike played football for the University of Wisconsin, and being a Badger was a source of great pride and significance to him. Many of our fondest family memories have been created during game days at Camp Randall.

Mike enjoyed coaching football at Urbandale High School, especially the privilege of coaching alongside his son, Todd McClish. As a coach, he made sure that every player felt like a vital part of the team—so much so that even the players who never stepped onto the field felt just as important as the starters.

Mike had a passion for cars of all kinds— from hot rods to Rolls Royces, he loved them all.

Mike’s greatest achievement was his family. His favorite place in the world was with his June Bug, children and grandchildren.

His legacy lives on in each of us, and we will keep his memory alive by sharing laughter and celebrating his life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to support J-Hawk Baseball and football. A memorial fund will be set up at Central Bank in West Des Moines.

Celebration Of Life

June 3rd Stoney Creek Inn Convention Center

5291 Stoney Creek CT. Johnston, IA 50131

5:30-6:30 Open visitation

6:30 Celebration of Life

Preceded in death by parents; brothers: Bob McClish and Butch McClish

Survivors include his loving wife June (June bug) McClish; children: Todd (Selena) McClish, Julie McClish, Meredith Hicklin; grandchildren: Berkley, Trey, Colton, Bennett, Drake, and Beckett; brother: Billy (Jan) McClish; sister: Sherry Gales.

Online condolences may be expressed with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com